Re: swift nest boxes

Hi all.  This is my first attempt at writing anything, although I have been a member for years I am not very computer literate and have only just found out how to use this forum.  However, I need some advice.  We have had swifts nesting in the eaves for a number of years.  (last year we had new bargeboards and soffits put in, and the builder thought I was 'Mad' when I asked him to cut a hole on the original site)!!!  Anyway, I have recently bought two swift boxes, but only have a south facing wall.  They will be put as far under the eaves as they will go, but I am afraid it still may get too hot in the summer. My other two wall are totally unsuitable, one has heavy traffic, including large wagons hurtling past, the other, has too many obstructions.  Has anyone any ideas as to what to use as a sunshade.  I will go to any lengths!

Sorry, there is a spelling mistake, it says, 'shat'  should read 'what'............

Hiya Carol welcome to the forum.

While you're waiting for help have a look here you could always email them www.swift-conservation.org

Hi Carol to edit your post if you want to make any alterations you should see a green pencil just under your post if you click that you can edit it

Thanks for the tip Alan, done!  Sounds much better now......

Hope you get some advice

Hi Carol

After seeing how agile Swifts are, are you sure the other walls are unsuitable?.

I don't have them nest so wouldn't know what would put them off, though i suppose they have picked a certain wall for a reason.

Never one to miss a chance to slip in one of my own photos , here's a couple of Swift pics :)

beautiful!!!

Yes, Im sure.  One wall is adjacent to heavy traffic.  Lots of wagons hurtling past.  They would not stand a chance there.  The other wall is facing my next door neighbour and above our garage.  I dont think they would have enough space to do their stuff.  I have sat and watched them flying from the nest site which is just above my flat kitchen roof.  They drop off the hole in the roof and soar past the edge of the kitchen roof. Which means that we have to put large trays of water on the kitchen roof to stop the cats from snagging one as it flies past.  

If I dont get advice (by the way I have e mailed a man from your suggested site on swifts), I shall think of something.  I just hope the man does not tell me that I cant do it.

Hi Carol, the chaps at Swift Conservation should be able to help, if not you may find some interesting info on our web pages here and here, if you have not yet recorded your swift nesting site please add the information to the swift inventory here.

If shade is not possible to create on the exterior, is there a way to fit boxes inside with holes cut into the new boards that adjoin the nesting boxes? It's interesting about the chap thinking that you were mad for doing asking for a hole to be put into the new fittings to allow swifts in, it just goes to highlight the issues roof nesting birds are facing these days!

Let us know how you get on and if swifts take to their new homes!