Remove nests from swifts

instagram viewer

Common swifts are often confused with swallows. But they are more related to the hummingbirds. But you may only remove the nests from these birds - if at all - under very strict conditions.

Common swifts, like swallows, are migratory birds and come to our latitudes to breed in the summer months. The nests are used again and again by the birds. Swifts originally bred on rocks or tree hollows. Nowadays the species is mainly found in settlement areas.

Remove nests - that's what the state association for bird protection says

According to the Federal Nature Conservation Act §39, it is generally forbidden to destroy or remove the nests of wild animals. And that in every season.

  • If you have to do something on the house, for example renovating the wall or the roof, you have to Make sure that you do not disturb the animals while they are breeding or block access to the nest for them, for example with a Framework.
  • If there is an already incubated nest on the building, even stricter guidelines apply. You may have to wait until autumn to start building.
  • In any case, you must inform the responsible "Lower Nature Conservation Authority". As a rule, every district has this authority.
    • Remove blackbird nest - this is how it works

    The blackbird (Turdus merula) or black thrush is one of the most common breeding birds in ...

  • There you can submit an application for the nests to be removed. Outside the breeding season, this is usually approved if a replacement is made available afterwards.
  • Nesting boxes for swallows and swifts, which are installed nearby, count as replacements. As a rule, these boxes are then accepted in the same way as the nests from last year in the next year.
  • For example, you can get the nesting boxes you need directly from LBV order. Skilled do-it-yourselfers can do it too build a nesting aid yourself.

Removing nests is not a minor offense. In the event of a complaint, you must expect a high penalty.

How to protect yourself from swift droppings

Often times, the nests only bother a homeowner because the walls are constantly defaced with feces. However, with simple tricks this problem can be minimized.

  • Place a manure board about 70 cm below the nest. This keeps your facade clean.
  • Another possibility is to attach nest boxes or swallow hotels in unproblematic places. In this way, you not only protect your house, but also help to conserve species at the same time.

Since swifts and swallows are insectivores, this will also reduce them Mosquitoes have in your garden.

click fraud protection