Wildlife

Wild House Martin Nest Site Welfare

House martins are declining summer migrants whose welfare depends on accessible nest sites on buildings and proximity to invertebrate-rich foraging habitat near water.

Key Facts

UK house martin populations declined 59% between 1969 and 2020
House martins build cup-shaped mud nests under building eaves
Modern building design with smooth soffits and no overhangs removes nest sites
Nest cup provision using artificial nest cups has proven successful at colony level
Muddy puddles for nest building material have become scarce in intensively managed areas

Welfare Considerations

House martin welfare depends on nest site availability and insect food supply. Simple interventions including nest cup provision can restore breeding at sites from which they have been lost.

What You Can Do

Install RSPB-approved artificial house martin nest cups under suitable eaves
Leave muddy areas or puddles available near nest sites during breeding season
Advocate for nest-friendly design requirements in planning applications
Support agri-environment schemes that maintain insect-rich habitat near water