United States
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Swifts in the UK have been declining rapidly over the past decades, with a population decrease of around 53% between 1995 and 2016. It is thought that the destruction of suitable nesting habitat is a core reason for this decline, and many councils are now advising swift bricks be used in new-builds and renovations.
This build-in nest box is designed to be integrated into the cavity of a building. It is constructed from long-lasting WoodStone and built to match standard UK brick dimensions.
Installation
Swift boxes should be sited at least five metres high on a non-south-facing wall, with a clear flight path from the entrance. It can be used in a rendered wall as it has a flat Woodstone front to render to, although a former should be used to ensure the entrance hole does not get filled with render or reduced in size. The block sits on the front wall leaving 50mm approximately hanging into the cavity and leaving 50mm or more for insulation where you have warm space behind. It has two nesting pans internally, allowing for the box to be mounted with the whole either to the left or right depending on preference.The insulation in the cavity can simply continue behind the block, so there is no thermal bridge. If insulation has to be cut away, it is important to cut the insulation around the circumference of the block. Preferably install the built in block in the gable end on the north or east side of the building 3 courses down from the top. This gives an ideal height for the block and is an area where there will be little disturbance from humans. Keep the flight path of the nesting box clear so do not allow trees or shrubs to grow in front of the wall. Swifts are colony breeders, so it is recommended that multiple boxes be sited together with at least 40cm distance between entrance holes.
