S.C., Windermere.

Many small birds do not sleep soundly because they need to be alert for predators. They may fly from their roost sites into the dark, rather than risk predation. It is then that they may fly to lighted windows, just as we too are attracted to light at night.

Blue wrens (superb fairy-wrens) and many other small birds roost at night in bushy shrubs and trees. Young blackwoods are often used, but any bushy foliage is suitable, preferably at more than a metre from the ground.

Birds must choose places that provide shelter from cold winds and frosts, and protection from foxes, cats and owls. Dense prickly shrubs are suitable for all sorts of small birds.