Nest box for swifts

The swift is a symbol of summer. They typically nest under roof tiles, but not all roofs are suitable for them. Therefore, it’s a good idea to install a swift nest box under the eaves of your roof. The box is screwed in (screws not included) through the back panel that sticks out on the sides. The hole should be at the bottom of the nest box!

It often takes a couple of years for the swift to find the box, so feel free to fill the box with some dry grass and bird feathers. Since swifts cannot take off from the ground, they struggle to collect nesting material. They are reliant on elm seeds and feathers blowing through the air!

Keep in mind that swifts need clear access to the nest box. It should be placed at least 3 meters high. While it doesn't have to be directly under an eave, that is usually the most natural placement. Swifts fly in a quick downward arc and then brake as they head back up to the box. It’s important that cats can’t wait for the birds and jump to reach the box, as the birds approach in the exact same way every time!

The box should ideally not face south.

The reason the hole in the swift nest box should be oval is to reduce the risk of rivalry over the nest, thus increasing the chances of successful nesting. Swifts occasionally share their nesting site with other species, although this is rare.

The outer dimensions of the box are 45x18x18 cm.

When is the right time to put up a bird box?

• It’s always the right time to set up bird boxes!