Post by matt on Apr 24, 2020 10:07:18 GMT
Thanks Benn, yes that is exactly the sort of information I am interested in!
I think real standout from those surveys for me was depth of nest (from hole) and the preference for woodcrete boxes, which they surmise is due to better insulation. That has me thinking that a standard concrete box won't give the same benefits, as concrete is a poorer insulator than wood, but there are some things you can use as concrete aggregate that improve insulation, e.g. perlite and/or vermiculate, which not only gives great insulation but makes a lighter box. I happen to have both for gardening purposes, so that is something I will try as well. Definitely got enough to keep me busy for a while until the next season kicks in, anyway!
Also notable that when they put lower/higher nest boxes near each other, the higher one (3m) was more often used. Every little helps, not that I have many 3m mounting possibilities.
I think real standout from those surveys for me was depth of nest (from hole) and the preference for woodcrete boxes, which they surmise is due to better insulation. That has me thinking that a standard concrete box won't give the same benefits, as concrete is a poorer insulator than wood, but there are some things you can use as concrete aggregate that improve insulation, e.g. perlite and/or vermiculate, which not only gives great insulation but makes a lighter box. I happen to have both for gardening purposes, so that is something I will try as well. Definitely got enough to keep me busy for a while until the next season kicks in, anyway!
Also notable that when they put lower/higher nest boxes near each other, the higher one (3m) was more often used. Every little helps, not that I have many 3m mounting possibilities.