What size nesting boxes are acceptable?

[Gilly]

Hi all, I`ve been thinking about making a few boxes to house my future chippies but I`m not sure on the sizes. There are some bits of scrap plywood left over from my build and I`m contemplating Knocking a few boxes up.

How big should the hole be?
What sort of dimensions should the box be?
How often do they need cleaning out?
What`s the best bedding material for them? I`ve read it`s best to leave it out for them to make their own nest.

I did see these on Fleebay:

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/NAT-WOOD-BUDGIE-NESTING-BOX-PET-BUDGIE-BREEDING-BOXES_W0QQitemZ200239700922QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item200239700922&_trksid=p3286.m14.l1318

I thought they looked good and would save a bit of work if they are big enough.
Your comments would be appreciated,thanks.......Gilly

[Gilly]

Oh no! I just looked on the main site page where all this information is available  Dooh!
Does the hole size want to be about 8cm?

[Nate]

Hi Gilly, just measured the entrance hole on one of my boxes, it's 6cm diameter.

Even my biggest fattest chipmunk can get in the nest with no problem.

[Gilly]

Thanks Nate, thats just what I needed to know. I think making one could be is the best way to go. The baffle you added is  great idea.