It is estimated that 100,000 pairs of Swifts will return from Africa to Britain and they will need somewhere to breed. Many will make their way back to the same nest that they have used for several years. Some the old nest will no longer be available as we repair and replace roofs and as a result block the holes, nooks and crannies that provide Swifts a summer home.

“The Swift is in trouble in Britain. During the last decade we have lost over a quarter of our breeding pairs so now is a good time to try and help this majestic summer visitor before it is too late. By putting up a nest box just under our eaves we can provide the much needed nesting space that has been lost,” according to Jeff Baker of the BTO.

According to Edward Mayer of the Swift Conservation advice service - "There are many different ways of accommodating Swifts on your property, from purpose-made boxes that fit into a wall, to more traditional wooden boxes that can be fitted close to the roof. There really is a solution for everyone and every Swift, so go on, fit a Swift box this National Nest Box Week! You can find out how to do it at our website - www.swift-conservation.org.”

As part of National Nest Box Week (NNBW), 14th–21st February, the British Trust for Ornithology, in partnership with Jacobi Jayne and with support from Swift Conservation, are encouraging people to put up nest boxes for these wonderful birds.

NNBW isn't just about Swifts. Launched on Valentine's Day, it is traditionally the time of year when birds begin to pair up before the breeding season, so now is a great time to put up any nest box in your garden. There are many different types that can be used, from a traditional box with a 25mm hole for Blue Tits and Coal Tits, to one with a 45mm hole for Starlings.