House martins are the birds with white rumps that build mud nests on the eaves of buildings, often in colonies averaging five nests. They will readily use artificial nests and this may encourage other birds to nest nearby. These nests should be sited underneath the eaves of your house or outbuildings.

House martins are the birds with white rumps that build mud nests on the eaves of buildings, often in colonies averaging five nests. They will readily use artificial nests and this may encourage other birds to nest nearby. These nests should be sited underneath the eaves of your house or outbuildings.

• CJ WILDBIRD

The Swallows Nest should be sited inside a building which allows easy access for the birds via an open door or window such as a garage or outhouse. The male Swallow will circle above his chosen nest site, singing to attract a female.

• CJ WILDBIRD

Natural nesting sites for swifts are becoming harder to find as we smarten up our homes,filling in the gaps that used to provide refuge.

This swift nest box has been carefully designed with the entrance hole facing downwards which allows the Swifts to fly up and into the box easily, increasing the likelihood of occupation. This arrangement also deters other birds such as starlings and house sparrows which have a reputation for squatting in more traditional swift boxes.

Boxes should be positioned as high as possible and close to the eaves. A clear space beneath the box is needed so the swifts call fall away to take flight.

Dimensions Height: 17.5cm, width: 43cm, depth: 26.5cm, entry slot 3cm

• SWIFT CONSERVATION

Increase the chances of swifts finding the nest box quickly by playing this CD of Swift Attraction calls.

For best results site your speaker near or even in the box and play it from late April to early June when returning swifts are looking for nest sites, and again in late July when fledglings are window shopping for next year.