This Woodstone Swift Nest Box provides an ideal replica nesting site which will not rot or deteriorate. The Woodstone nest box is made with a mix of cement and wood fibres which provides a consistent internal temperature and protection from predators. This box can be mounted onto a wall or it can be built into the fabric of the wall. The front of the nest box is easily removed for cleaning.
What makes this nest box more suited to swift birds than others?
The first difference is that the shape of the box is landscape rather than portrait, with this reflecting the fact that Swifts sit relatively horizontal in the box as they’re unable to use their tiny and weak feet to cling to anything of note. Related to this, you’ll notice that the entrance to the Swift nest box is located a) towards one end of the box, and b) set in the lower half. So this allows the birds to enter and exit the box, plus have adequate space inside away from the hole – and including for when the young Swifts hatch and then grow.
What time of year can I expect to find Swifts nesting in the box?
Swifts return to our shores from Africa in late April and early May, and will quickly take up nesting sites – perhaps a previous one they’ve used or entirely new. Given this timing is late in the season compared to other species, a problem can occur where House sparrows have already occupied nest boxes put up specifically for Swifts. To get around the problem there are two things you can do: Firstly, cover up the entrance hole for the Swift box until late April (by then most House sparrows will have started nesting). Secondly, put up plenty of nest boxes just for House sparrows.
Where’s the best place to position a Swift nest box?
There are several considerations here. In a general sense, the best place is normally under the eaves of your house or other property. The second point is that the nest box mustn’t get direct midday and afternoon sunshine on it, so if the eaves of the property are not that deep then go for an east-facing aspect. The final consideration is that Swifts need a clear flight path in, so avoid aspects where there’s a tree or other obstacle in the way.
