The Cornell Lab of Ornithology interprets and conserves the earth’s biological diversity through research, education, and citizen science focused on birds.

They encourage nest observations to help better understand the impacts of environmental change on bird populations. Studies of nesting birds can increase their understanding of population ecology, conservation biology, and behavioral ecology.

However, because there is often intense competition among nesting birds for a limited number of suitable breeding sites, many species are decreasing in population. Urbanization, habitat loss, predation, competition with non-native birds, disease, pollution, and a host of other factors all can contribute to reduced reproductive success in birds.

To date, hundreds of thousands of nest boxes have been provided to help bird populations, but many are infrequently monitored and data that are collected are not always analyzed.

Nest monitoring also increases an appreciation for birds and the natural world. Regular trips to nests enable people to witness the labors of parent birds, from the start of nest building, up to the time the young reach independence. Witnessing and understanding the nesting cycle can increase appreciation and respect for birds, which can lead to increased protection of birds.

According to experts, a nesting box should be durable, easy to check, and clean.

A good nest box should be made of untreated wood (pine, cedar, or fir) and have thick walls (at least 3/4 inches), an extended/sloped roof, rough or grooved interior walls, recessed floor, drainage holes, ventilation holes, easy access for monitoring and cleaning, no outside perches.

Also look for sturdy construction, or do it yourself and know that it’s made right. Click here for DIY nesting box construction plans.

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