Wildlife

House Martin Colony Welfare and Nest Protection

House martins build mud nests under eaves and have declined significantly, partly due to buildings being modified to exclude their nests and reduced mud availability.

Key Facts

UK population declined by around 50% since the 1970s
Build distinctive cup-shaped mud nests under eaves
Often nest in colonies and return to the same sites annually
Destruction of active nests is illegal under the Wildlife and Countryside Act
Declining availability of wet mud affects nest building capacity

Welfare Considerations

House martin colonies are frequently destroyed during building renovation. This is illegal during the breeding season. Artificial nest cups now available provide alternatives where original sites cannot be preserved.

What You Can Do

Never remove active house martin nests during the breeding season
Install artificial house martin nest cups if renovation is necessary
Create wet mud areas in gardens during nest building season
Record colonies for BTO House Martin survey
Advocate for planning guidance that protects active bird nests