KnockerNorton
Well-known member
Hi all,
I'm trying to get Marsh Tits (specifically) to use nestboxes, but with little success. In fact, none! I've positioned pairs of standard-sized tit boxes with 26mm holes in Marsh Tit territories (and near previous natural nest sites), but they're still ignored. Blue Tits often take one box, hence the boxes in pairs about 7m apart to leave one for the Marsh, but they're still preferring natural holes.
The habitat is broadleaved woodland with c.25 pairs of Marsh Tits. There are lots of natural nest sites in old coppiced ash and hazel, but I need to get at the nestlings for ringing.
Anyone for any ideas/experience?
I'm trying to get Marsh Tits (specifically) to use nestboxes, but with little success. In fact, none! I've positioned pairs of standard-sized tit boxes with 26mm holes in Marsh Tit territories (and near previous natural nest sites), but they're still ignored. Blue Tits often take one box, hence the boxes in pairs about 7m apart to leave one for the Marsh, but they're still preferring natural holes.
The habitat is broadleaved woodland with c.25 pairs of Marsh Tits. There are lots of natural nest sites in old coppiced ash and hazel, but I need to get at the nestlings for ringing.
Anyone for any ideas/experience?