Texas Teenager Aamir Tinwala Installs Over 750 Nesting Boxes for Native Bird Species
A Texas teenager, Aamir Tinwala of Coppell, has built and installed more than 750 nesting boxes across eight Texas counties. These boxes provide nesting sites for 16 or more native bird species, including Carolina Chickadees, Eastern Bluebirds, and Purple Martins. Tinwala's initiative, known as The Backyard Bird Project, began in middle school after COVID restrictions were lifted. The project addresses the decline in natural nesting cavities in suburban areas due to the removal of dead trees and hollow limbs. Many native bird species are 'secondary cavity nesters,' meaning they rely on existing holes rather than creating their own. Each nesting box is designed with specific dimensions, including entrance hole size, to accommodate intended species while excluding larger competitors, and features like drainage holes and roof overhangs to ensure suitability. The boxes are made from untreated wood to prevent off-gassing that could harm the birds. 
