Supporting Swift Conservation In Churches

Due to modern architectural design, swifts are losing their traditional nesting sites. By installing nest boxes in churches, you are able to provide a lot of nesting opportunities very cost effectively

Norwich Swift Network has been working with churches in Aylsham, Saxthorpe, and St Albans, Norwich, to install swift nest boxes behind the louvre windows of the bell towers. Each church is different and requires bespoke cabinets of boxes, and a caller system to help the Swifts find the boxes. Being social birds, Swifts really like these systems as they can nest close together in a safe place. If you would like help with a church project please explore the information here to get started and get in touch if you need further support.

Above: Installing ten cabinets of three nest boxes, each with it's own inspection door, at Aylsham St Michael's. Supported by Aylsham Swift Group and local cabinet maker Carey.

Above: Three cabinets of four at St Alban's, Norwich. The windows here are much smaller than Aylsham but the louvres are much wider apart, allowing a duplex style between each one.

Despite the title of the article, read about the amazing success they have had at St John's, Bury St Edmunds here: Action for Swifts: An idea that has not worked (yet)