Choose a species-specific plan, verify parts and mounting, prepare observation records and plan maintenance. Includes source-based dimension references and a reusable checklist.
Identify cavity-nesting birds present at your site and select a complete plan intended for that species and region. Save its author, version and source URL. Use the dimension reference to read a supported entry, then open the original document before choosing a box or preparing a cut list.
Sketch the intended location, vegetation, nearby structures and approach route. Check the selected species guidance for habitat, mounting and spacing. Choose a compatible support and predator guard, and plan how the box can be inspected and serviced without unsafe climbing.
Measure actual board thickness and mark each dimension as a panel size, floor-piece size or assembled interior measurement. Check entrance shape as well as size. Follow the complete drawing for joints, slopes and floor fitting; inspect drainage, ventilation, access and the closure before mounting.
Install the empty box according to the selected mounting instructions before intended use. Check fasteners, closure and guard clearance. Assign a box ID and record the plan, actual dimensions, location sketch, installation date and a photograph. Arrange a practical observation position and a person responsible for follow-up.
Read the NestWatch Code of Conduct and species guidance before visiting. Prepare the record in advance. Avoid unsuitable weather, early incubation and the period near fledging; use distant observation when a close check is inappropriate. Record what was actually visible, including uncertainty, rather than filling gaps with estimates.
Summarize dated observations, confirmed outcomes and unknowns separately. Use clutch references only to contextualize a recorded count; a single visit does not establish a complete clutch. If incubation start was estimated, retain that uncertainty when comparing a hatch window. Confirm the box is no longer active before routine maintenance and consult current species and local guidance.
Inspect a named source entry and preserve its bottom, floor-piece, panel and entrance labels. Open the complete source before designing or cutting. · Convert documented dimensions and compare entrance alternatives or the Gingert plan’s supported stock thicknesses. This is not a complete cut list or a mounting calculation.
Compare a recorded egg count with a named species reference while retaining single-visit versus complete-clutch context. Do not infer health or breeding success.
Compare an incubation-start-based planning window with recorded hatch observations. It does not identify safe nest-visit dates or establish breeding success.
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Keep this record beside the complete selected plan. A number without its measurement basis can describe the wrong part.
| Record | What to preserve |
|---|---|
| Species and source | Full species name, author, document version and URL |
| Entrance | Round diameter, or oval width × height |
| Floor | Distinguish a cut piece from assembled internal space |
| Height | Identify the panel, side or cavity being measured |
| Stock | Actual thickness and any documented alternative |
| Conversion | 1 inch = 25.4 mm; display precision is not a cutting tolerance |
Review the source design for drainage, ventilation, weather protection, secure access and climbing provision inside the box. Choose mounting and predator protection for the species and site, with access for future care. Do not treat a generic pole-height result as proof of protection.
Read the full protocol before a nest visit. Weather and nesting stage can make a check inappropriate. Keep records ready, minimize disturbance and retain unknown observations. The protocol takes precedence over a reminder or an estimated hatch date.
NestWatch describes different cleaning outcomes among species and locations. Decide on old-material removal using current local guidance and confirmed occupancy status, rather than a calendar date alone. This guide does not prescribe a disinfectant mixture.
Save the document with your measurements. Record any deviation and obtain appropriate design guidance before building.
Record a count as observed and mark uncertain dates or outcomes as unknown. Reference ranges do not supply missing field observations.
Choose a location and mounting method that allow responsible monitoring and maintenance. Ask for experienced help if access is impractical.