Pick a sheltered spot, check the timber is sound, then screw the bird box securely to a fence rail, post or shed frame.
BB-01Choose the right spotFix the box 2-4m up, facing north to north-east so it avoids strong afternoon sun and the wettest weather, which in most of the UK comes from the south-west. Pick a spot with a clear flight path in front of the hole and away from bird feeders, washing lines or anything busy. Avoid fixing over a gate or door you use often, since nesting birds don't like disturbance.
BB-02Check the timber is soundPress the fence panel, post or shed board where you plan to fix. It should feel solid, not spongy or crumbly. Thin featherboard fencing often won't hold screws well on its own, so aim for a fence post, arris rail or the shed's timber frame instead of the thin infill boards.
BB-03Mark the fixing pointsHold the bird box against the timber at your chosen height and check it with a spirit level so it isn't tilted sideways. Mark through the box's fixing holes or bracket with a pencil. Most boxes have two fixing points, roughly 150-200mm apart.
BB-04Drill pilot holesIf you're fixing to a shed that has electrics run through it, check there's no visible cable or conduit near your marks before you drill, and stop straight away if you feel any resistance that doesn't feel like plain timber. For a standard fence or shed frame, drill a 3mm pilot hole at each mark, about 30mm deep, angled slightly so it goes into solid timber rather than a gap.
BB-05Screw the box into placeUse stainless steel or zinc-plated outdoor screws, 40-50mm long, driven through the pilot holes into the fence post, rail or shed frame. Tighten by hand-feel rather than full drill power so you don't crack the timber or overtighten and warp the box's mounting bracket. Set the box level, or tilted very slightly forward, so rain runs off the roof rather than into the hole.
BB-06Check it's secure and tidy upGive the box a firm push and a gentle tug to check it doesn't shift or wobble. Sweep up any sawdust or offcuts, and put your tools away. Leave the box undisturbed once fitted, particularly between February and August when birds may be nesting.