I have 4 breeding cages outside, that way when I do use them, the breeding pairs will get sunlight etc. But, I have a question about nestboxes. If I use the type I normally do, the ones that have a lid that open at the top, there is a risk of the mum or dad escaping when I check the nest, correct?

If I make the nestboxes so that instead, they open at the back..So I can still easily check the nest, and the parents (or older chicks) can't fly up and out..it would be a whole lot harder for them to fly towards me and out--especially if my hand is blocking the opening--that just out the top, right? They'd want to go the opposite direction of me..ie, out of the nest into the cage.

I make my own nest boxes, so would having the nests so that they opened on the back be a good idea? Or can anyone think of a better way of making the nest, so that accessing it, there's little to no risk of the birds escaping?

Any input is useful, thanks. :rofl:

Opening a nestbox that isnt in a closed area will always run the risk of escapesno matter what design. Even some of the birds breeding learn how to open the lids and escape. If you have a large net put that over the nestbox as you check so any that get past you dont get any further thasn the net. Also you may want to drill a hole and insert a nail or screw to stop the birds lifting lids to get out as well. I have many birds who learn how to escape the nestboxes or breeder cages and mine are within a birdroom. I open my birdroom door very carefully these days :rofl:

Place a piece of clear plastic under the door / access that way you can look with out them geting out.

Place a piece of clear plastic under the door / access that way you can look with out them geting out.

Good plan. I have some nestboxes withb double sliders....a plywood door and an inner glass door.

i use both designs your talkin about i find the ones that slide open from the end are much better as it is harder for them to escape and easier to clean. one way of stopping the birds from opening the lid on the other ones is to put a brick or something along those lines on top of it that is wat i do. that way the lid is way to heavy to open for them.