3. Wild bird care & accessories
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  5. Swift nest boxes
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Swift nest boxes

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Swift populations in the UK are in serious decline. Over the past 25 years, more than half of our Swifts have vanished, and they are now on the UK Red List of birds of highest conservation concern. Whilst the causes of their decline are complex, we do know that loss of nesting sites is a big contributing factor, as buildings are renovated and roof spaces sealed. Putting up a Swift nest box is one of the most impactful things you can do to help save these wonderful birds.

At RSPB Shop, we have a few different options for Swift nest boxes, created in collaboration with Action for Swifts, a voluntary organisation working solely for the conservation of Swifts. All of our nest boxes are designed with bird safety as a priority. And, as Swifts tend to return to the same nesting site year after year, are made from high-quality, durable materials that should stand the test of time.

It can take a few seasons for Swifts to find and use a new box, so don't be disheartened if they don't take to it straight away.

3 list items
Action for Swifts (AfS) triple chamber Swift nest box product photo
Action for Swifts (AfS) triple chamber Swift nest box
£140.00
(1)
Action for Swifts (AfS) Swift & bat combo nest box product photo
Promo Label
Action for Swifts (AfS) Swift & bat combo nest box
£70.00
(1)
RSPB Swift nest box product photo
Promo Label
RSPB Swift nest box
£50.00
(19)

Swift box FAQs

How high does a Swift box need to be?

A Swift box should be installed at least 5 metres above ground, ideally under the eaves or an overhanging roof, as Swifts need height to drop straight into flight. Unlike garden birds, they cannot take off from the ground or flat surfaces. There should be a completely clear drop beneath the box, with no trees, wires, ledges, or balconies directly below. The higher and clearer the flight path, the more suitable the site will be for Swifts.

Which direction should a Swift box face?

Swift nest boxes can be placed on any aspect of a building, but it is important to avoid locations receiving full, direct sunlight for most of the day, to avoid chicks overheating. East, west or north aspects are all fine. If the box must face south, please ensure it is shaded from the summer sun (May to July inclusive) under wide eaves, or equivalent.

How long before Swifts use a Swift box?

Patience is essential: it can take one or two breeding seasons before Swifts start using a newly installed box. Swifts are very faithful to nesting sites and usually only look for new ones when young birds are entering the breeding population or when existing sites are lost. Once a box is adopted, it’s likely to be used year after year.

Do I need one Swift box or several?

Swifts nest in colonies, so installing two or three boxes close together significantly improves the chances of attracting them. Even if only one box is used at first, others may be occupied in future years as the colony grows. Grouping boxes also mirrors the way Swifts naturally nest in clusters under eaves and rooflines, making the site feel more attractive and authentic.