Convert a nest box into a winter roost

It's therefore important to remove old nests and clean out nest boxes in autumn, after the birds have vacated them. It's also a good idea to convert the box into a winter roost, giving birds a cosy refuge on cold nights.

Here's how to do it.

You Will Need

• Bird box
• Material for insulation, such as dry wool, hay or wood shavings
• Dustpan brush
• Boiling water
• Cloth and veterinary cloth (optional)

Step 1

Remove the nest from the box, including any unhatched eggs, and discard. It's only legal to do this between August and January.

Step 2

Use a dustpan brush to thoroughly clean out of the box, paying particular attention to the corners and sides.

Step 3

Wash with hot water to kill any parasites. You could use veterinary disinfectant. Do not use insecticides or flea powders.

Step 4

Allow the box to dry out completely before adding cosy roosting material. Here, we've used sheep-wool insulation.

Feeding birds in winter

It's a good idea to feed birds all year round, but this is especially important in winter. Read our advice on feeding garden birds in winter.