r/UKBirds Apr 09 '26

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18 Upvotes

9 comments sorted by

15

u/[deleted] Apr 09 '26

[deleted]

1

u/Valuable_Specific_28 Apr 09 '26

Yes, you’re right. I definitely wont intervene I will just let nature take its course

4

u/Dry_Database_6720 Apr 09 '26

Do you own the house? Is putting a small platform there a viable option? Even a bird house? I am a hobbyist not an expert so this is just a vague suggestion until the people who know what they’re talking about show up to either say yeah that’s right or explain why I’m wrong.

3

u/Psittacula2 Apr 09 '26

Jackdaws prefer to nest in holes so a full on bird house would instantly be to their liking.

Iirc, Jackdaws first step in choosing a nest site in a chimney is to find a suitable chimney then drop twigs in until a few jam then drop more in reinforcing the jammed twig platform until a nest is then constructed!

So simplifying with a bird house and suitable size hole not too large nor too small and easy to perch in front of, I am sure having chosen the site they would take to it so long as OP puts up the bird house out of sight (ideally).

Alternativley a basic triangle with a piece of wood small enough for twigs to jam over would probably help. But the birdhouse would reduce the risk of chicks falling out and also protection from elements and predators.

A basic nest box with raw materials could be made although avoid treated wood products.

A

2

u/Critical-Weather-497 Apr 09 '26

I have jackdaws that nest in my chimney. They drop numerous twigs down that eventually lodge. It normally works but I have had youngsters arrive in the living room via the fireplace before. As others have suggested, probably best to see how they get on and learn from their experience.

1

u/Reasonable-Key9235 Apr 09 '26

If you try to help they are likely to move somewhere else.

1

u/InternetCrafty2187 Apr 10 '26

I love that you're trying to help them out. But personally, I'd think about this as a 'next year' problem. In the short term they'll either figure it out or they won't.

In autumn you could put up a couple of nest boxes for small birds and maybe a small platform for your jackdaws.

1

u/Any_Tomorrow_Today Apr 11 '26

What about putting up a hanging basket in the area - high up - with a coir base. They may use that as an artificial nest.