Resources for Ecologists for increasing bird habitats

House Sparrow feeding young in Brick Bird Box Standard.

At Bird Brick Houses, the team share your passion for nature – the company founders Duncan and Jenny are licenced barn owl ringers and have been monitoring Tyto Alba in East Sussex for many years. We are accumulating a considerable amount of bird data and expertise from our bird and bat boxes which we monitor.

In the quest for sustainable urban ecosystems, the integration of bird, bat, and bee brick houses has become a focal point for ecologists. These purpose-built structures not only provide essential nesting sites for birds but also support the conservation of bats and bees, contributing significantly to urban biodiversity.

These brick houses are designed to seamlessly blend into urban landscapes, offering secure habitats for various species. The versatility of these structures caters to the diverse needs of birds, bats, and bees, making them invaluable additions to city environments.

Key advantages

Avian diversity: Bird brick houses attract a range of species, from swifts to sparrows, enriching urban biodiversity and fostering a healthier ecosystem.
Bat conservation: Specifically designed for bats, these structures aid in the conservation of these nocturnal creatures, playing a vital role in maintaining a balanced urban ecology.
Bee support: Bee brick houses provide essential nesting spaces for solitary bees, contributing to pollination and supporting vital ecosystems.

Installation and placement

Strategic placement, varying heights, and consideration of surrounding greenery are key factors in the successful installation of these brick houses. Thoughtful urban planning ensures optimal benefits for bird, bat, and bee populations.

Duncan Barn Owl Monitoring and Ringing

Frequently asked questions

What is the likely take up rate of boxes once installed?

Results from boxes we have fitted indicate a 75% take up rate (i.e. a nest or roost site) within the first 12 months. We are delighted to say that to date, 100% of boxes used for nesting have been used again the following year.

I need to recommend a solution for housing bats and need more information?

The bat box has an angled internal floor so that droppings fall out of the entrance slot. The back of each box is lined with wood; in front of this sits a removable, untreated sawn timber baffle board dividing the main area into two for extra roosting space. Bat boxes are normally supplied with a non-removable front, due to the licensing position concerning access. We can however supply them with a removable front if specified.

What is the range of bird species that will use your nesting boxes?

House sparrows, tit species, wagtails, flycatchers, black redstarts and starlings will all use the standard box; the aperture size is modified dictating which of the above are likely to be attracted.

The swift nest box is modified with an arch shaped entrance aperture; a shallow internal cup assists and accelerates nest construction. A sparrow nest box is constructed as a terrace, with two separate compartments, each with its own entrance.

How durable are your boxes?

The body is made from recycled polypropylene – an extremely tough and durable material used in construction for cavity trays and damp proof courses. This means the box lets in minimal amounts of moisture in adverse weather conditions making it such a highly desirable dry winter roost. As the plastic will be exposed to virtually no sunlight (if any), degradation is effectively eliminated. As a result the boxes are expected to last for the lifetime of the building in which they are housed – an important feature in terms of environmental planning.