Residents, schools, and local businesses throughout Hampshire are being encouraged to apply for free artificial nests as part of a significant effort to assist threatened house martins. The Hampshire Ornithological Society plans to install up to 900 artificial nest 'cups' across the county before the birds return from Africa in April and May 2027. Local nature enthusiasts are being called upon to register their interest.
This initiative comes in response to a significant decline in local house martin populations. Over the past two decades, the UK's house martin population has fallen by 40%, largely attributed to poor breeding success. These birds construct distinctive cup-shaped nests using approximately 1,000 pellets of soft mud, a process that can take over a week. Prolonged dry weather, such as that experienced in the South Downs this summer, can severely limit the availability of mud for nest building.
The artificial nest cups are designed to mimic natural nests but are constructed from woodcrete, offering greater strength and durability compared to mud. The scheme is supported by the South Downs National Park Trust, the official charity for the National Park, through its Sustainable Communities Fund, alongside various partners from the environment and water sectors.
“"Our pilot last year showed that house martins will readily use artificial nest cups when they are installed in suitable locations close to existing colonies. We are now looking for householders and other property owners across the county who would be willing to give these remarkable birds a safe place to raise their young. The artificial nests will be provided and fitted free of charge so demand is likely to be high. Anyone interested should visit our website, check the eligibility criteria and complete the online application form."
To request an artificial nest cup, interested individuals should visit www.hampshirehousemartins.org.uk. Further information about the Sustainable Communities Fund can be found by clicking here.
