Spring is here, and with that comes new life and nesting birds.
Birds can nest almost anywhere, but often find spaces around our homes, including roof spaces, eaves, and wall cavities.
Many birds have resorted to using houses as a place to build their nests due to the loss of habitat they have experienced. Facia boards and eaves provide the security and warmth they need to raise their chicks.
All wild birds, their eggs, nests, and chicks are protected by law under the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981). This means that if a nest is found within a roof space or other areas around your home, it cannot be moved or disturbed. It is illegal to obstruct a bird from building a nest, as once the first piece of material has been placed by the bird, the nest is protected.
The most common roof-nesters are house sparrows and starlings, who unfortunately are red-listed due to rapid population decline. Generally, these birds are very quiet and do not cause any problems. If you find they are becoming a nuisance, we ask that you allow them to nest until the chicks have fledged, and any repairs can take place in the Autumn and Winter months to prevent nesting the following Spring.
Birds tend to nest between March and August, so any repairs that need to be carried out to prevent birds from making a home within your home can only be done so between September and January.
If you have any questions or would like to find out more information about how you can help protect our birds, visit The RSPB Wildlife Charity: Nature Reserves & Wildlife Conservation, email wildlife@rspb.org.uk or call 01767 693690.
If you have concerns about birds in or around your home, please contact us.