Swifts migrate long distances yet face many threats along their journey. Lack of nest sites is a big problem but installing swift boxes and bricks won’t be the only solution.

Swifts need two things. Safe, dry, nest holes high up on walls and lots of flying insects to eat – but both are in decreasing supply.

Nice, neat roof lines on modern housing, free from cracks and crevices, do not make for good swift hospitality. Campaigners are calling for the widespread installation of swift boxes or bricks in new builds to provide safe nesting spaces for these migratory birds to raise their chicks.

Studies show that these bricks work. Swifts are attracted to them and occupancy rates can be high. But research indicates that these bricks and boxes alone may not be enough to support the struggling swift population.