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Should I clear out the nestbox now that my Great Tits have left ot not? (1 Viewer)

Euan Buchan

The Edinburgh Birdwatcher
Supporter
Scotland
Since My Great Tit's left my nestbox about 2 weeks ago (around that time) would it be adviceable to clear out the nestbox now or leave it for a few more days just incase? Just thaught I post a topic about it don't want to repeat that situation last year when wasps took over (which I learned my lesson)
 
Great Tits are rarely double-brooded - and even if they do come back (or another pair has a late attempt), you'll be doing them a favour by clearing it out - it will be full of flea larvae and other bugs by now (wear gloves, or wrap a bag around your hand!). By clearing it out, you might actually increase the chances.

While adults and possibly some young may come back to roost for a few days after fledging, taking the nest out, cleaning out the insects (I light a few tissues inside after taking the nest out, to purge them) and sticking a little bit of fresh moss in will do them no harm at all. 2 weeks is enough time. Waiting til autumn will only make it more convenient for you, as the fleas and lice will be dormant, and not wriggling/jumping about.
 
A clean nest box is still attractive to wasps but you should be ok this time of year because the queens start looking for nesting sites from about April.

Chris.
 
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