Nest boxes

[Riverbird]

I am debating whether or not to put up nest boxes in my garden, as my neighbours cat is a real hunter & kills everything
I am concered that the non of the chicks will make it when they fledge, as i can see the cat having the lot
I was wondering what your opinions were, & whether you think it is worth doing or not.

Also i would like to make my own fat feeders & i was wondering what is the best fat to use, & can you use vegetable fat??

Thanks x

[Ollie]

Hi Riverbird.
Regarding your neighbours cat, it all depends on what sort of relationship you have with the neighbour. One of the best ways to deter the cat without harming it is a well aimed jug of water or a very good kiddies water pistol. One it has had a few soakings it shouldn't be as keen to come on your property. As a lover of all animals I wouldn't do anything more drastic than this but it does deter them. Of course your neighbour would probably need to be advised of your intentions towards the cat and be ok with this,

I think you need to give it carefull thought and then make a decision on how things are progressing if you decide to try this.

As to the type of fat to use I use bought fat balls so can't really advise on this one.
Roger

[buzfuz8149]

Hi Riverbird,

mine are up under the eaves out of the reach of our cat. Last year my new neighbour had put a box in the magnolia tree, the cat could sit on the branch near the box - all the boxes were occupied including the neighbours and all fledged safe (with the help of my trusty water pistol - poor cat). He has now moved his box up to the eaves, thank goodness.

Carol

[Tormentil]

Try Silent Roar Cat Repellent

[Riverbird]

Hi Roger,

Thankyou for your advice.
My garden is a bit of a funny layout (as i live on a boat).
I have a wooden jetty area that is fenced in & then i hav a garden the otherside of the tow path which is not fenced in, so the water method would not work unfortunatly.
My partner did get the cat with the hose on our jetty a while back because it kept going after my guinea pig, & it hasnt come round since
I did consider puting a box up in my jetty garden, but i think they will probably end up drowning or being caught by seagulls.
mmmmm perhaps it isnt a very good idea, which is ashame.