Nest box

[2] Nest boxes are getting more attention because increasing industrialization, urban growth, modern construction methods, deforestation and other human activities since the mid-20th century have caused severe declines in birds' natural habitats, introducing hurdles to breeding.

Nest boxes can help prevent bird extinction,[3] as it was shown in the case of scarlet macaws in the Peruvian Amazon.

[6] Nest boxes should be made from untreated wood with an overhanging, sloped roof, a recessed floor, drainage and ventilation holes, a way to access the interior for monitoring and cleaning, and have no outside perches which could assist predators.

[8] Some nest boxes can be highly decorated and complex, sometimes mimicking human houses or other structures.

Seasonally removing old nest material and parasites is important if they are to be successfully re-used.

Directions for making the open bottom bat houses for small and large colonies,[15][16] as well as locations to purchase them are available on the internet.

Australian bat box projects have been running for over 12 years in particular at the Organ Pipes National Park.

[18] Nest boxes are marketed not only for birds, but also for butterflies[19][20] and mammals, especially arboreal ones such as squirrels and opossums.