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Swifts in the UK have been declining rapidly over the past decades. 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. By installing nest boxes such as this one it will greatly help to support their numbers. This build-in nest box is designed to be integrated into the cavity of a building. It is constructed from long lasting FSC certified WoodStone with a plywood backing. This nest box should be sited at least 5m high, with a clear flight path and avoid south facing sites.
Installation
The block sits on the front wall, leaving 55mm approximately hanging into the cavity. Assuming you have a cavity, which is 100mm plus then you still have space for insulation where you have warm space behind.
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.
This block can be used in a rendered wall as it has a flat Woodstone front wall to render to. Use a former to ensure the entrance hole does not get filled with render or reduced in size.
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 likes to breed in colonies, therefore it is advisable to build in several building blocks together. The distance between the mounting the blocks must then be at least 40 centimetres. No nesting material needs to be added.
