What they like

Hollow trees, nest boxes and messy corners full of life. Put a nest box 2–4 m up, with a 32 mm entrance hole. Hang it facing northeast, a bit in the shade. Leave ivy, hawthorn and hazel: shelter + food for its buffet. In parks and yards: less tidy, more shrub layer. In the countryside: herb-rich margins and a few old trees work wonders.

Ecological importance

Top controller of caterpillars and aphids. During the breeding season an endless stream of insects goes to the chicks. That reduces feeding damage in garden and orchard. Works best where many different native plants grow, so expand the menu: a nettle corner, wildflowers, rough vegetation. Sparrowhawks and cats take it; provide cover with dense shrubs.

When in the Netherlands

All year round. In winter often in mixed flocks, and fond of feeders.

Status

Common. Can decline locally where there are few insects and management is too tidy.