Biodiversity Net Gain and encouraging roof nesting birds

NFRC has worked proactively with roofing contractors, suppliers and conservation groups, such as RSPB, Swifts Local Network and Action for Swifts, to try to reverse the decline in the bird population in the UK by raising awareness amongst the roofing industry and encouraging the installation of nest boxes. Many formerly common species such as house sparrows, starlings, house martins and swifts are now red listed as the number of breeding birds has declined by over 50 per cent in the last 20 years. They are now 'Birds of Conservation Concern' as they are in critical decline.

Renovation and repair work to the roofs of our homes and buildings severely affects the birds that need small cavities in the eaves to build nests and raise their young. Without somewhere to breed, these bird populations will continue to decline. A Guidance Note, GN57, 'Encouraging Roof Nesting Birds', has been formulated to support this work. Special thanks go to NFRC Members Clarke Roofing Southern Ltd and Wienerberger for their support and help with this important piece of work.