The Swift Nest Box provides a purpose-built nesting space for one of the UK’s most iconic and rapidly declining bird species. Designed specifically for swifts, it offers a safe and durable alternative to the natural nesting sites that are increasingly lost through modern building practices and renovations.
Based on the widely used Zeist design and refined using the latest guidance from Swift Conservation, this nest box helps support breeding swifts by replicating the enclosed, sheltered spaces they naturally seek in buildings.
Design & Use
The box features a single nesting chamber accessed via a narrow oval entrance hole set within an overhanging front panel. The entrance has been carefully sized (28 x 65 mm) to suit swifts while helping to deter larger species such as starlings and sparrows.
Swifts spend only a short period in the UK each summer to breed, relying on suitable nesting sites in buildings. Installing dedicated swift boxes helps replace these lost habitats and supports local populations.
Construction
Manufactured from precision cut FSC® certified exterior grade plywood, the box is built to provide a dry, draught-free and long-lasting nesting environment. It is treated with a non-toxic, water-based preservative that is safe for birds while protecting the timber from the elements.
The design includes a removable side panel for access if required, while maintaining a secure and enclosed nesting space.
Siting & Installation
Install the box externally on a building, ideally beneath the eaves at a height of at least 5 metres. A clear, unobstructed drop below the entrance is essential to allow swifts to approach and leave the box easily in flight.
Choose a quiet location away from frequent disturbance. Multiple boxes can be installed to encourage colony formation.
Maintenance
If used exclusively by swifts, the box typically requires little to no maintenance. However, if occupied by other species such as sparrows or starlings, nesting material should be removed during the winter months when the box is unoccupied and before swifts return in spring.
Specifications
- Material: FSC® certified exterior grade plywood
- Finish: Non-toxic, water-based preservative
- Dimensions: 210 x 430 x 210 mm (H x W x D)
- Weight: 2.8 kg
- Entrance hole: 28 x 65 mm
- Fixing: Six mounting holes on sides
A simple and effective way to support swift conservation, providing a dedicated nesting space where natural sites are no longer available.
- Material: FSC certified exterior grade plywood
- Finish: Non-toxic, water-based preservative
- Dimensions: 210 x 430 x 210 mm (H x W x D)
- Weight: 2.8 kg
- Entrance hole: 28 x 65 mm
- Fixing: Six mounting holes on sides
Delivery & Returns
Shipping is calculated at checkout based on order weight, product type and delivery postcode. Prices exclude VAT.
Delivery times
| UK mainland | 1 to 3 working days for orders placed before 2pm |
| Scotland, Northern Ireland & UK offshore areas | 2 to 5 working days for orders placed before 2pm |
| Europe | 3 to 5 working days for orders placed before 2pm |
| Rest of world | 7 to 14 working days for orders placed before 2pm |
Delivery costs
UK mainland: delivery starts from £7.92.
Highlands and Islands: delivery starts from £25.
Northern Ireland: delivery starts from £20, rising to £90 for orders up to 60kg.
Larger orders, pallet deliveries and some offshore or international deliveries may require a quote.
For European orders, please visit wildcare.eu, call +33 (0)4 65 65 00 05 or email [email protected].
Need it by a certain date?
Please tell us when ordering. For urgent orders, call 01451 833181.
Returns
If your order arrives damaged or incorrect, please contact us within 5 working days.
A Returns Number may be required before sending goods back. Call 01451 833181 or email [email protected].
Please see our full returns policy for more information.
