Get Nest Check Data Sheet - Nestwatch

Nest visits should last no longer than one minute. Clipboards are an excellent way to keep your data sheets organized. Generally, you should AVOID visiting nests under the following conditions: Do not check in the early morning.

To get as much information as possible about each breeding attempt it is best to look in the nest/box on several occasions, though no more than is necessary (so as to disturb the birds as little as possible). A few well-planned visits to the nest/box can provide all the information we need.

Use a mirror attached to the end of a pole to see into nests that are higher than your head, or use binoculars to monitor nests at a distance. Visit the nest one last time after you are certain that it is empty to determine if any unhatched eggs or dead young remain.

How often to check your nest. To get as much information as possible about each breeding attempt it is best to look in the nest/box on several occasions, though no more than is necessary (so as to disturb the birds as little as possible). A few well-planned visits to the nest/box can provide all the information we need ...

Before you open the nest box, make sure the birds know you're there, since a startled bird may fly into your face. Just tap lightly on the box or call. Open the box and quickly check.

Check the nest every 3-4 days, or at least once a week. Record the number of eggs and young observed during each visit, as well as other relevant observations such as the behavior of adult birds.

Before you open the nest box, make sure the birds know you're there, since a startled bird may fly into your face. Just tap lightly on the box or call. Open the box and quickly check.

We recommend that old nests be removed in the autumn, from September onwards once the birds have stopped using the box. Use boiling water to kill any remaining parasites, and let the box dry out thoroughly before replacing the lid. Insecticides and flea powders must not be used.