In a bid to assist tree swallows in finding suitable habitats for breeding, a Halifax resident is urging locals to construct and set up nesting boxes on their premises. Jessica Ryuzaki shared that the inspiration struck her while she was out exploring the city, noting the increasing tree removals and pondering the repercussions on local wildlife, particularly the birds. Ryuzaki emphasized the significance of these avian creatures in the community, recalling the melodic chirping that fills the mornings.
The population of tree swallows and other aerial insectivores in Nova Scotia and P.E.I has dwindled since the 1970s, as per data from the Canadian Breeding Bird Survey. These birds are cavity-nesters, preferring to dwell in tree holes or crevices. Introducing nesting boxes as alternative shelters for birds in the absence of ample trees is not a novel concept. Ryuzaki highlighted the simplicity and accessibility of building such boxes, suggesting that inexpensive materials, including non-wood items, can be purchased from budget stores to create them.
Tony Millard, the president of the Nova Scotia Bird Society, endorsed Ryuzaki’s initiative and took to social media to promote it. He recommended that nesting boxes be installed in open, sunny areas with grass, positioned about two meters above ground level to safeguard against ground-based predators. Additionally, optimal box placement should involve facing south or east to mitigate strong winds. The project, now dubbed ReNest Nova Scotia, is sharing box templates for wider adoption.
Millard underscored that these nesting boxes could benefit various bird species beyond the tree swallows, offering advantages to participating homeowners as well. Besides providing nesting sites for the swallows, these boxes contribute to reducing bugs in yards as the birds feed on them. Winter is touted as the ideal construction period, with Millard advising people to utilize indoor time for box preparation and installation before April, in anticipation of the upcoming breeding season.
Ryuzaki revealed receiving numerous expressions of interest from individuals looking to partake in the initiative, expressing eagerness to witness the boxes dotting Halifax yards come spring. She expressed enthusiasm for widespread community involvement in setting up nesting boxes throughout Halifax, envisioning the positive impact it could have.