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enough so pets cannot get at them. Follow guidance given on the box when you buy it. You can of course make your own box if you are handy with wood and a hammer.

It is ideal if they are close to a tree or branches so the birds can reach the nest box under cover for most of the time and also the fledglings will use it later. We placed one close to a small apple tree and we could watch as over the year, two broods of blue tits fledged from the nest box into the tree before taking their first proper flight.

A great idea is to leave nesting material in the garden. This can be a few feathers, soft string cut into small pieces, shredded paper or straw. Make sure the birds can get to it but place it in a string bag on a tree. They will find it and hopefully use the materials to create their nest.

Water is vital for birds as drink and to take a bath in. Provide a bird bath or shallow pond if you can. They will use it, and appreciate the fact it is close to their nest.

Birds may not use the nest boxes and prefer to build their own nests. Whether a natural nest or bird box, if you provide shelter, food and safety, you are doing all you can to attract and care for the birds in your back yard. You are providing prime birdy real estate and any discerning bird will have everything they need right their in your yard.
All you have to do now is enjoy them.

Learn more about this author, Sammy Stein.
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