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I recently installed a new wooden gate at the end of the garden. It leads into a grassy passageway at the back of the houses. The only acess is for the two houses either side of mine, so there are no cars. The gate is 6'6" tall and there was a small space to the side. I fenced in one side and put in a 4" wide crossbeam for support. My elderly neighbour laughingly suggested that I should make it into a house for the young robin who follows me around the garden. Given that robins like open boxes and other odd areas in which to nest, I thought I 'd take him up on the idea. Here is the result. The entry point is about 6' from the ground, the hole is about 4"x2" in size and the beam inside is 4"wide and 12" long, so there is plenty of room for a nest. The front panels are tongue and groove, which will allow me to remove any waste after the breeding season is over next year. Any suggestions, observations are most welcome. If you don't think this will work, please let me know.
Unicum arbustum haud alit duos erithacos
(One bush does not shelter two Robins)
Zenodotus (3rd Century B.C.)
This looks like it has good potential for robins however they may be a bit vulnerable. Robins often choose secluded spots, amongst dense climbers or tucked away in a recess (or in many cases this year sheds and garages!).
Maybe you could think about attaching some trellis work around the entrance hole and plant it up with some quick growing climbers like honeysuckle, bittersweet, clematis or native ivy.
Warden Intern at Otmoor.
How does that look? I've planted honeysuckle, which should have grown sufficiently by next Spring. I can add another small section of trellis immediately over the access hole if required. If you can think of any other steps I can take to ensure the robins' safety (and that they even consider using it) please let me know. Thanks.
Nicely done!!! That should look fab and attract in loads of insects as well as offering some decent cover. If you can extend the trellis work around the hole then do so as it will only help. 5 stars from me for a top bit of stepping up for nature!