Wildlife Nesting Structures

Supplementing natural nesting sites

CWH’s Nesting Structure Program installs artificial nesting boxes and platforms for wildlife species whose natural habitats have diminished or disappeared due to development, farming, or deforestation. For a reasonable fee, CWH installs wildlife nesting structures for Purple Martins, Wood Ducks, Ospreys, Eastern Bluebirds, Owls, Prothonotary Warblers, Great-crested Flycatchers, and Flying Squirrels. All nesting structures are equipped with predator guards. Please note that we will only install nesting structures on your property if it has appropriate habitat. We also strongly encourage landowners to monitor the structures so that non-native species do not use them. Click here for reasons to conduct weekly checks. Our Nest Watch page provides information to help you identify nests you might find in your nesting structure.

CWH also monitors and collects data on Purple Martin nesting systems on the Mid-Shore. Active management of Martin housing provides better control of invasive nonnative European Starling and English House Sparrows, resulting in more successful Martin production. In 2019, 765 chicks were fledged from 35 CWH-monitored houses/gourds, with an average of 22 chicks per house.

The table below shows the different types of nesting structures that CWH installs, as well as structure-related services and repairs. Click on the name of a box to view a larger photo.

Prices vary. For pricing, more information, and/or to arrange for a site visit, call 410-822-5100.

Nesting structures are subject to 6% Maryland sales tax. A travel/mileage fee is added to all installations.