1) The location of your bird house

One of the main reasons why birds don’t use your bird house is its location. Birds are very particular about where they raise their young, and if the nesting box is in an unsuitable spot, they will avoid it. So, place your bird house in a shaded area of your garden sheltered from direct sunlight, wind, and rain. Additionally, ensure you place it in an area of your garden that’s quiet, peaceful, and doesn’t get much activity from humans or pets.

2) The type of bird house you’re using

The type of bird house you choose can also affect whether birds use it or not. Different species of birds have different preferences when it comes to the type of nesting box they prefer. For example, a sparrow will like a small, cosy house with a small entrance hole, while a greenfinch requires a larger box with a bigger entrance hole.

• A 26mm entrance hole is perfect for tits and sparrows
• A 32mm entrance will encourage larger garden birds like starlings and greenfinches
• Robins prefer a nest box with an open-ended front

3) Timing of when you set your bird house up

The time of year you decide to mount your bird house is another important factor to consider when it comes to setting up a home for garden birds. Wild birds are cautious and will usually not move into a new bird house straight away until they know it’s safe. Wild birds typically begin nesting in the spring and usually remain in the same place for most of the summer, so if you put your bird house up too late, most birds will already have established nests elsewhere. But many species of UK garden birds will use nesting boxes all year round, and some even use them mainly in winter to stay warm!

4) A place safe from cats

Birds are very cautious when selecting a nesting site and avoid areas where they feel threatened. For example, birds may avoid nesting in your garden if there’s a lot of cat activity or until they are confident nesting there will be safe. To help with this, you can place nesting boxes away from platforms where cats can jump and away from hedges and trees where cats can easily hide. This creates a safer environment for the birds, and they will be more likely to move in and begin raising a family.

5) Birds are drawn to food and water

If there is a lack of food or water in your garden, local birds may not be attracted to your bird house. But by offering them bird feeders filled with quality bird food and a bird bath so they can drink and stay cool in summer, you will be providing them with the resources they need to thrive.

As you can see, there are many reasons why birds might not be using your bird house. By considering the location, the type of bird house, timing, safety from cats, and the access they have to food and water, you will increase the chances of a pair of local birds calling your nest box home and starting a family. But remember, it may take some time for birds to discover your bird house and decide if it’s safe, so be patient, keep an eye on their antics and enjoy!

If you have any questions about where to put your nesting boxes, feeding birds or something unique to the wild birds in your garden, please get in touch, and we will happily help.