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Where old buildings become derelict, chough can lose their nest sites and find a shortage of good alternative sites.

Chough nest shelters, containing a nesting platform, are designed to provide a nest site, close to an area of suitable habitat, as an alternative to traditional nest sites such as caves and old buildings. Adults may also roost in shelters at other times of year.

What needs to be done?

Construct the shelter according to the option requirements.

Which fields to choose?

These shelters are best located close to suitable feeding habitat, e.g. dune, or short-grazed free-draining grassland. We recommend you consult with Scottish Natural Heritage about the location of the shelter.

The shelters need to be erected in the first year of your contract.

You are required to combine this capital item with at least one of the following managment options:

• Chough Mown Grassland
• Chough Grazing Management

Further information and advice, e.g. on standard design specifications, can be obtained from your local Scottish Natural Heritage office.