Halifax residents are being encouraged to construct and set up nesting boxes on their properties to support tree swallows in finding homes and breeding successfully. Jessica Ryuzaki, the advocate behind this initiative, was inspired during a walk around the city when she noticed the increasing number of trees being cut down and pondered the impact on the local wildlife, particularly the birds. Ryuzaki emphasized the significance of birds in the community, recalling their melodic chirping each morning.
Tree swallows, along with other aerial insectivores, have experienced a decline in population in Nova Scotia and P.E.I since the 1970s, as reported by the Canadian Breeding Bird Survey. These cavity-nesting birds prefer living in tree holes or crevices. Nesting boxes serve as alternative habitats when natural tree homes are scarce. Ryuzaki highlighted the simplicity of constructing these boxes using affordable materials readily available, such as those found at dollar stores.
Tony Millard, the president of the Nova Scotia Bird Society, embraced Ryuzaki’s idea and is promoting it through social media. He recommended mounting the nesting boxes in open, sunny, grassy areas at a height of about two meters to protect the birds from ground predators. The boxes should face south or east to shield them from strong winds. The initiative, now known as ReNest Nova Scotia, provides templates for constructing the boxes.
Millard pointed out that these nesting boxes can benefit various bird species beyond tree swallows, offering advantages to homeowners by helping control insect populations in their yards. He advised starting construction during winter, ensuring the boxes are ready for installation by April, just before the birds’ breeding season in spring.
Ryuzaki has received positive responses from individuals interested in participating in the project. She expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing the boxes across Halifax, envisioning a community effort to support bird conservation.