How many British birds nest in cavities/holes?

[sfsorrow]

Hi, I am having trouble finding the exact number of British breeding birds that nest in cavities, I am aware that within Europe there are 60 species (14%) that use this breeding strategy. Thank you in advance.

[rsvp]

I'm assuming you mean how many different breeds of birds nest in cavities/holes.
Can't help you there but perhaps the RSPB website may be able to help.

[wildwood]

It is impossible to find an exact number. Some birds like for instance the house sparrow is not a natural hole-nester but is sometimes listed as such because it now utilises a lot of man-made nests and cavities. Some of the lesser known birds also build a proper nest or use a natural cavity or an abandoned/stolen tree hole.

[sfsorrow]

I have asked the rspb and am awaiting a reply, as for it being impossible to answer this is incorrect, the fact that 60 species in Europe nest in cavities is obvious proof that cavity nesting species is known. I am in the third year of a Conservation Ecology degree and my dissertation is on hole nesting species, that is the reason for my asking, I was just looking for a quick answer to a question. it seems I will have to get in touch with someone at the BTO. Thanks for your answers, much appreciated.