Nest boxes

Buy nest boxes: the right box for each bird species

A nest box is more than a beautiful little birdhouse: it is a breeding place that must suit the bird you want to help perfectly. Natural nesting cavities in old trees and buildings are becoming increasingly scarce, so a good nest box makes a real difference. The entrance hole size, internal dimensions, material and mounting height together determine whether chicks will be raised in the spring.

Choose your nest box by bird species

• Blue tit – entrance hole 25–28 mm.
• Great tit – entrance hole 32 mm.
• House sparrow & tree sparrow – 32–35 mm, preferably in colonies or a sparrow house.
• Starling – 45 mm.
• Robin, chiffchaff & wren – half-open nest box.
• Wren and treecreeper – special models with a small or side entrance.
• Woodpeckers & nuthatch – deep box, entrance hole 45–50 mm.
• Swift and barn swallow & house martin – under the eaves or against the facade.
• Owls & peregrine falcon – large boxes for little owls, barn owls, tawny owls and peregrine falcons.

Which material?

Wood-concrete nest boxes (for example from Schwegler) last for decades, provide good insulation and are resistant to woodpeckers and martens. Wooden nest boxes are natural and breathable; choose untreated wood at least 18 mm thick. Do you want to watch the nest? Then choose a camera nest box. Are you building or renovating? Then built-in nest boxes for swifts, house sparrows and bats are ideal.

Mounting and maintenance

• Hang up the nest box in autumn or winter, so birds can explore it in peace before the breeding season.
• A height of 2 to 3 metres works for most tits and sparrows; owls and peregrine falcons prefer it higher.
• Face the opening to the north-east or east, away from the bright afternoon sun and prevailing wind.
• Empty and clean the box every autumn with hot water, without chemical agents.

Are you mainly looking for a decorative or modern house? Then take a look at all birdhouses or our designer birdhouses. With some nesting material nearby, you make it even easier for your guests.