starling box

UK starling populations are estimated to have fallen almost 70% since the mid 1970s due to habitat loss and drier summers reducing the availability of the soil invertebrates they feed on. Starlings are classified as having Red conservation status, under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2022) and are protected in the UK under both the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) and the Post-2010 Biodiversity Framework

Starlings are happy to roost in urban and rural locations but increasingly choose urban homes as cities tend to be a little warmer which can make the difference to their survival over winter. In winter, flocks of starling perform one of the natural world’s most magical displays – the murmuration.

The habi-sabi starling box provides attractive nesting opportunities for this species, helping to mitigate habitat loss. The box is easy to assemble and fit – it can be built in minutes without any fixings, all you need is some sandpaper.

We recommend putting your box up in a position at least 3 metres above the ground, on an external wall. A north-to-east facing orientation is preferable, avoiding direct sunlight and the worst of the rain and wind. It is important that there is nothing obstructing the flight path directly in front of the box entrance hole. Starlings prefer nest boxes which are not directly above doors, windows or well-used paths. For further information please see the RSPB website

There is no need to paint or varnish your habi-sabi box, you can wipe the box clean with a damp cloth when unoccupied. Our boxes are manufactured from Phonotherm 200 – a rigid, inert, durable and stable insulating board made from post-consumer recycled materials that would otherwise be destined for landfill. The boxes combine physical stability and optimal thermal performance. Manufacturing complies with environmental standard ISO 14001 and the boxes are free from adhesives and formaldehydes, making them safe for wildlife. The habi-sabi starling box is fully compliant with RSPB guidelines.