FAQ's

NFS Nest boxes

Provide a safe and comfortable place for birds to roost and nest. NFS nest boxes are made from sustainable, recycled wood so they're safe for birds and have good insulation properties, making them warm in winter and cool in summer. We carefully design our nest boxes to have the correct dimensions and ventilation that birds need. Our nest boxes don't have decorations that predators could cling to and threaten the birds inside. Buy an NFS nest box and you know you're buying quality.

Why are NFS nest boxes not coloured or come in fancy shapes?
A colourful box may attract predators and a material such as metal roofing could literally "cook" young birds if the box is in a sunny spot while ceramics would not provide enough insulation.

There are colourful nest boxes on sale that look the gaudy but are really quite dangerous to nesting birds. Don't be tempted to go for the unusual shapes and colours traditional, wooden nest boxes really are the best and often the most cost effective too.

"People tend to forget that a nest box will eventually contain tiny helpless, vulnerable baby birds and the appearance of the box should be the last thing on your mind."

In how many days will the nest boxes and feeders be occupied?
Birds utilizing the nest boxes is a totally natural process it can take anywhere from a few days to weeks to months. It also depends on bird population in the location where you are placing the nest boxes.

Where should I place my nest box?
You can fix it on a wall or tree, a height of 1.5 to 5 metres is recommended, however, a height that is clear of inquisitive humans and cats is what you should aim for. If there is no natural protection it is best to mount a nest box to avoid direct sunlight and the heaviest rain.

How do I fix the bird box in place?
You can nail the box directly to a tree trunk or use of rope around the trunk or branch do not use a metal wire. Both methods are OK but it may be easier to take the box down for cleaning if it is tied rather than nailed in place.

How should I choose a nest boxes for my house/ garden?
Observe birds which visit near your house or garden the easiest way to observe this is take a walk or watch out for birds that visit your premises. You can install the nest boxes for the birds.

Is it difficult to install a nest box or a bird feeder?
NFS nest boxes and bird feeders are as simple as putting a photo frame on a wall. The feeders can be hung easily using a S-hook. Apart from this each nest boxes and bird feeder will have a detailed installation manual with each nest box and bird feeder. You can always call on our helpline or email us.

I live in a flat on a higher floor will the birds come in there in a nest box or a feeder? Is space or lack of balcony a constrain? Where do I place them?
Our nest boxes have been occupied even on the 13th floor so height is not a problem. You can easily place them on window grills even if you don t have balcony, one nest box can be installed on each window.

How long will nests boxes last?
We have tried and tested our nest boxes in different climatic conditions they will last 4 years + if they are installed in open exposed to the elements. However if they are installed in place where they don t come in contact they will last more. Since the nest boxes are made of wood they will not last till infinity.

The hole of the nest box seems to be small?
You may find the nest box hole to small but they are bird specific. Do not increase the hole size or add a perching stick to the nest box as it helps the predators and puts the life of chicks in danger.

Does the nest box require maintenance or frequent cleaning?
No the nest boxes don t require any type of maintenance or frequent cleaning. The birds bring in their own nesting material. All you need to do is clean the nest box once in a year.

How do I clean my nesting box?
Make sure you clean you box when the birds are not nesting always clean the nest box when the nesting season is over. Make sure there are not bees or wasps in the box hence gently tap the box before removing. Throw away all the nesting material as it may contain parasites. Do not use any cleaning agents simply scrub and clean the nest box with hot water.

NFS Bird Feeder

Where should I place my bird feeder which is the best location?
Birds need to feel safe when feeding. Locate your feeder so as to give all-round vision to its visitors, and ideally not more than 6 feet from convenient cover such as trees or shrubs or window grill. If you are replacing an old feeder, leave it in place until the birds become accustomed to the new one. And remember, it can sometimes take several weeks for birds to have the confidence to start visiting a new feeder, but be careful not to let the food go stale.

Where cats are a problem, the ideal location will avoid low-lying cover below the feeder where ground feeding birds may well forage on spilt seed, as this reduces the chances of an ambush.

What are the most popular bird seeds to use?
House Sparrows and other grain eating birds will prefer the below grains :

Can birds become dependent on bird feeders?
Birds become accustomed to a reliable food source and will visit daily. However, birds search for food in many places, so if your feeder goes empty, most birds will find food elsewhere. It s always advisable of having someone fill your feeder while you re away.

How do I clean my bird feeders?
Before filling your feeder with fresh seed, it is recommended that the following precautions are taken:
1. Remove all old seed.
2. Soak feeder in a light water/bleach solution (9 parts H20 to 1 part bleach).
3. Scrub feeder and allow to air dry.
4. Scrape and remove accumulated droppings from underneath the feeders.
5. Spread a tissue paper under the feeder, replace tissue paper when soiled. To prevent mould growth.
6. Thoroughly wash hands after handling and cleaning feeders.