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Nestwatch Blog: "nest box"


Repopulating Mottled Owls in Veracruz, Mexico

The Xalapa Wildlife Conservation Management Unit in Veracruz, Mexico, works to boost populations of Mottled Owls in urban green spaces. They are piloting a first-of-its-kind nest box program to help the owls find safe nesting spots in cities.


Using Wi-Fi Enabled Security Cameras for Nest Monitoring

With more people using Wi-Fi enabled security cams at home, we’re seeing an increase in their use for monitoring nests as well. These smart cameras integrate with apps on your phone to provide around-the-clock access to your favorite birds. NestWatch project leader Robyn Bailey and NestWatch chapter coordinator Ian Stewart share their experiences with two different camera styles. See what they learned, compare image quality samples, and share your own tips.


What Should You Do About Bird Blow Flies in the Nest?

Bird blowflies are an unwelcome blood-feeding parasite found in the nests of many species of birds. Their presence is often blamed for nestling deaths, but there is little scientific evidence that they commonly reduce nestling survival, suggesting that their harmful effects are below a lethal threshold. What—if anything—can or should we do about them when monitoring nest boxes?


Ants in Nest Boxes

What should you do about them? Our latest blog post explores the answer.



NestWatchers Document Rare Use Of Nest Boxes By House Finches

House Finches are known to nest around human habitations, but are only rarely documented using nest boxes. We spoke to two NestWatchers who have House Finches using nest boxes they monitor, and we share tips on what to look for if you think you might have them, too!


From Pest to Pleasure: Solving a Neighborhood Bird Problem Peacefully

When Pygmy Nuthatches were creating a nuisance in a Colorado community, one woman stepped in to advocate for a peaceful solution. That act of peace eventually changed the arc of her life—taking her from occasional birder to self-taught citizen scientist and community activist.


How to Protect Tree-Mounted Nest Boxes from Snakes

Most predator guards that prevent climbing predators are built for nest boxes that are mounted on poles. New research supports the effectiveness of a simple DIY predator guard meant to deter snakes from tree-mounted boxes.


The Life and Times of Mites

If you monitor bird nests, you’re probably pretty familiar with mites. Join us as we explore the different kinds of mites that inhabit birds and their nests, and discover how birds have evolved to fight back.


A Pulley System for Large Nest Boxes

For anyone struggling with how to clean and maintain a large nest box mounted on a tall pole, consider installing a pulley system to raise and lower your nest box. Within this post is a link to a design for building a low-cost pulley system.

Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Cornell Lab of Ornithology