For Starlings
Starlings are beautiful and social birds that can brighten up any garden with their unique calls and shimmering plumage. However, as natural nesting sites become scarcer, offering a purpose-built starling nest box is a great way to support these fascinating birds. Read more here.
Starling nest box: the perfect home for starlings
Whether you’re an experienced bird lover or just starting to welcome wildlife into your garden, the right nest box can make all the difference.
Why do starlings need nest boxes?
Starlings traditionally nest in holes in trees, walls, or roofs, but urbanization and habitat loss have significantly reduced the availability of these natural spaces. Nest boxes provide a safe, secure, and sheltered place for starlings to raise their young. By putting up a starling nest box, you’re helping to protect their population while enjoying the beauty of these lively birds in your garden.
What makes a good starling nest box?
A starling nest box is specifically designed to meet the needs of this medium-sized bird species. When choosing or installing a nest box, here are some important features to consider:
- Entrance hole size: Starlings prefer a round entrance hole of approximately 45 mm in diameter. This size allows them easy access while keeping out larger or unwanted species.
- Durable materials: A good nest box is made from sturdy, weather-resistant materials like wood or WoodStone, ensuring it lasts for years.
- Spacious interior: Starlings often nest in small colonies, so they require a box with ample space to accommodate their needs.
Vivara offers a range of starling nest boxes that are developed in collaboration with ornithologists, ensuring they meet the highest quality standards.
Placement tips for your starling nest box
To attract starlings and ensure their safety, you’ll need to place the nest box carefully. Here are some tips:
- Choose the right height: Position the nest box at least 3-5 meters above the ground, ideally on a sturdy tree, wall, or post.
- Face the right direction: Ensure the entrance hole faces north, east, or northeast to protect the nest from direct sunlight and heavy rain.
- Avoid disturbances: Place the box in a quiet area of your garden, away from busy walkways or noisy spots.
Benefits of installing a starling nest box
Adding a starling nest box to your garden not only helps these birds thrive but also offers you the chance to observe their fascinating behaviors. Starlings are known for their:
- Social nature: They are highly communal birds and often nest in groups. Their presence can attract other bird species to your garden.
- Beautiful plumage: Starlings’ glossy feathers shine with a rainbow of colors in the sunlight.
- Unique calls: These birds are excellent mimics and can replicate sounds like car alarms or other birds.
How to care for your starling nest box
Once installed, it’s important to maintain the nest box to ensure it remains safe and inviting:
- Clean the box annually: After the nesting season (late summer or autumn), remove old nests and clean the box with warm water to prevent parasites and disease.
- Inspect for damage: Check for cracks or wear and repair or replace the box if necessary.
Why choose Vivara for your starling nest box?
At Vivara, we specialize in products designed to help wildlife thrive. Our starling nest boxes are made from durable, eco-friendly materials and are designed to provide a safe and comfortable nesting space. Developed with the input of wildlife experts, these boxes are not only functional but also blend seamlessly into natural surroundings.
Welcome starlings to your garden
Installing a starling nest box is a simple yet impactful way to support wildlife and enjoy the beauty of nature in your own backyard. By choosing a high-quality nest box, you can create a safe haven for starlings and contribute to their conservation.
Explore our range of starling nest boxes and make your garden a home for these stunning birds today!