NEW NESTING HOMES FOR HOUSE SPARROWS AT PREMIER LEAGUE FOOTBALL GROUND?

Artist's impression of the Selhurst Park proposal

FOOTBALL grounds are not normally noted for providing sanctuary or nesting places for birds, but things could change at Selhurst Park - South London home of Premier League side Crystal Palace FC.

As part of proposed reconstruction of the man stand, there has been call for nestboxes to be installed for house sparrows - a species in decline in London as elsewhere.
                                                       

Male house sparrow - species in decline

A report submitted by The Ecology Consultancy states: "It  is recommended that bird boxes suitable for declining species such as house sparrow should be installed on site.

"The inclusion of woodcrete bird boxes are recommended as they are available in a range of
designs, are  long  lasting  compared  to  wooden  boxes  and  insulate  occupants  from
extremes of temperature and condensation.

"House sparrow boxes should be located at least 3m above ground level on new/existing buildings out of direct sunlight but not obscured  by  dense  vegetation.

"The  boxes  should  be  cleaned  out  yearly  during  the winter months (September -February) and old boxes should be replaced or repaired as necessary.2

The recommendation will be considered by Croydon Borough Council as part of the process to determine whether planning permission should be granted.

If a decision  favourable to the club is made this spring, it is possible work on the scheme could start during the close season.

The club's nickname is The Eagles.

* See also: http://crystalpalacebooks.blogspot.co.uk

Inside the ground - the stand pictured is earmarked for enlargement