Former substance misusers build bird boxes for wildlife

Feb 24 2010 by Matt Hurst, Bromborough and Bebington News

RECOVERED drug users and alcoholics have built nest boxes to provide homes for birds living along the Dee Estuary.

More than 16 clients with ARCH Initiatives’ aftercare service spent several weeks working on the boxes, which will be presented to the RSPB and Thornton Hough Primary School.

All the nest box creators have battled problems with drug and alcohol addiction, but are now on the road to a regular life.

The work was carried out under the watchful eye of ARCH arts and crafts tutor, Mike Cunningham.

He said: “Arts and craft activities are a very important part of treatment services at ARCH Initiatives.

“Our service users have been very enthusiastic about using their skills on a project that will help the environment and promote an interest in local wildlife.”

And as well as building the boxes the participants were taught about the fascinating birdlife that can be seen at this time of year around Wirral.

RSPB visitor development officer, Paul Brady delivered a talk on his area of expertise, the Dee Estuary nature reserve.

One of the former substance misusers said: “I really enjoyed making the nest boxes.

“I didn’t realise that different birds need different nest boxes.

“We are even going to have a go at making bat boxes.”

The nest boxes will be used in an area of woodland renowned for its Spring display of bluebells, while seven will be handed over to pupils at Thornton Hough Primary School, to see if they can entice some wildlife to stay at a time of year when birds are looking for new homes to settle in to.

RSPB visitor development officer at Dee Estuary nature reserve, Paul Brady said: “This project comes at an ideal time of year when birds are looking for new places to nest.

“It’s wonderful that we will be putting these boxes up around our nature reserve to encourage even more wildlife to live here.”