How to make a nest box for swifts

Both swifts and their suitable nesting sites are in decline, so why not help these fascinating birds by building and installing a nest box under your eaves?

Find out how to make a nest box for garden birds.

Put it in a shady spot at least 5m above the ground, with nothing obstructing the path to the entrance hole.

You Will Need

• Weatherproof timber planks or marine ply (12-15mm thick)
• Drill
• Jigsaw or saw
• Self-tapping screws
• Angle brackets (two, 30cm x 20cm)

Step 1

Measure and cut the wood to size: two pieces 50cm x 25cm for the roof and base, two pieces 50cm x 20cm for the front and back, and two side pieces 17cm x 20cm.

Step 2

Sand off any rough edges and ensure the pieces fit together well. Use the jigsaw or saw to cut a rectangular entrance that's 7cm x 3cm, in a bottom corner of the front panel.

Step 3

Screw the pieces together, making sure they're flush and there are no gaps. Fix the brackets to the box so you can easily put up the box under the eaves of your roof.