Swifts reside in the UK for three months each summer and nest most commonly in the eaves and gables of our buildings. Many modern and renovated buildings are not suitable for swifts, providing nest boxes for swifts is a great way to ensure that they continue to nest in the UK.
The FSC Wooden Swift Nest Box is a single compartment nest box designed to be located under the eaves of a house. The oval entrance hole and sloping roof are specifically designed to attract swifts, and designed to exclude starlings from occupying the nest. The mounting panels and opening for the box are situated on the side which allows the nest box to be sited directly beneath the eaves.
Swift boxes should be sited before May and should be fixed at least 5m above the ground, with a clear flight path for swifts to access the entrance hole. The box should also be placed in a position that protects it from the midday sun and preferably from the worst of the wet weather. It is important to ensure that it is not accessible to predators such as cats and squirrels. The box can be fixed in place using screws or nails.
It is advisable to clean out nest boxes during October/November, and for more information, take a look at our blog The NHBS Guide: Where to hang and how to maintain your nest box.