Integrate Wildlife Boxes/Bricks
Key Benefits
- Biodiversity: Provides essential nesting/roosting sites for target species (e.g., house sparrows, starlings, swifts, various bat species), particularly where natural sites are lacking in modern buildings; Contributes to BNG and local biodiversity targets.
- Ecosystem Services: Supports populations of insectivorous birds and bats, contributing to natural pest control.
- Education & Amenity: Opportunities for observation and engagement with local wildlife.
Technical Guidance
Guidance
Integrating wildlife boxes/bricks is a simple way to enhance buildings for biodiversity. Selection and siting are key. Refer to guidance from RSPB, Bat Conservation Trust (BCT), manufacturers.
Types: Wide range available: Integrated bricks (swift bricks, bat bricks/tubes, sparrow terraces - built into wall fabric), External boxes (wood, woodcrete, plastic - fixed to surface). Choose type appropriate for target species and building type (new build vs retrofit).
Target Species & Location: Swifts: High up (>5m), under eaves, N/E aspect preferred, clear flight path. (See Swift Boxes page). Sparrows/Starlings/Tits: Various box designs. Often prefer N/E aspects, sheltered from strong sun/rain, clear flight path, height varies (2-5m typical). Sparrow terraces mimic colonial nesting. Bats: Various box/tube designs (crevice, cavity). Need specific siting - sheltered, near foraging routes (hedges, water), aspect varies by species/roost type (e.g., S/W aspects for maternity roosts). Height >3-4m typical. Avoid artificial lighting spill. Requires consideration of bat ecology (BCT guidance essential).
Density & Grouping: Install multiple units where possible, especially for colonial species (swifts, sparrows). Density depends on site context and targets.
Installation: Integrate bricks carefully during construction according to manufacturer guidance. Fix external boxes securely with appropriate fixings, ensuring stability and weather resistance.
Timing: Install ideally outside breeding seasons (birds: typically avoid March-August; bats: consult BCT guidance for timing relative to roost type).
Maintenance: Generally low. Most bird boxes benefit from annual cleaning (autumn/winter, remove old nests) unless occupied by sensitive species (check guidance). Bat boxes should generally not be disturbed (bats/roosts legally protected - check BCT guidance). Check fixings periodically.