Across the UK, natural nesting spaces are declining as older trees, hedgerows, and traditional building features disappear from streets and gardens.
For homeowners planning renovations, extensions, or just want to make their garden more eco-friendly, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity.
This National Nestbox Week (14–21 February), experts at British Garden Centres are encouraging renovators to design outdoor spaces that don’t just look good, but actively support local wildlife.
Design wildlife in from the start
Modern home improvements often prioritise clean lines and low-maintenance landscaping, but these can unintentionally reduce shelter for birds. Mature trees, dense hedging, and undisturbed corners are increasingly rare in new developments and garden redesigns.
By incorporating nestboxes into walls, tree trunks, pergolas, or outbuildings during renovation work, homeowners can reintroduce lost nesting spaces. Choosing the right design matters: boxes with 25–28mm entrance holes suit smaller birds such as tits and sparrows, while 45mm openings accommodate larger species like starlings. Open-fronted boxes are ideal for robins and wrens that prefer sheltered spots.
As Paul Williams, Bird Care Buyer at British Garden Centres, notes: “Introducing a nestbox to your garden can significantly improve a bird's quality of life. Engaging with nature and helping the birds in your garden live healthy lives is an important aspect of our living environment.”
Placement is a structural detail that matters
For renovators, positioning should be considered as carefully and treated as you would lighting or drainage.
Boxes with entrance holes are best installed around three metres high, ideally facing north or east to avoid overheating and prevailing weather. Open-fronted designs can be placed lower, such as on fences or garden walls.
Integrating boxes during external upgrades - such as cladding, fencing replacement, or pergola installation - ensures they are secure, discreet, and protected from predators like cats. Spacing is also important; clustering boxes too closely can lead to territorial disputes during breeding season.
As Amy Stubbs, Project & Development Manager at British Garden Centres, explains: “From selecting the right type of nestbox and the perfect location to offering expert advice on placement and maintenance, your local British Garden Centre is your one-stop shop for all things you need to make your garden an attractive space for garden birds.”
Build a garden that supports nesting success
A nestbox is only one element of a wildlife-friendly renovation. Planting native hedging such as hawthorn or holly can create natural shelter and food sources, while leaving small areas of lawn longer encourages insects that young birds rely on.
Supplementary feeding and access to clean water further increase the likelihood of successful nesting. Avoiding pesticides and reducing collision risks with simple window decals are additional steps homeowners can take to create a safer environment.
Small structural changes, thoughtful planting, and proper nestbox placement allow homeowners to turn a renovation or garden redesign into a meaningful contribution to local biodiversity - all while enhancing the garden’s character and livability.
