Swallows Nesting - Is it ok to destroy nest

[theanimallover]

Hi,

I work at an outdoor centre - merely the cleaner.

There are two swallows nests inside part of the building. The swallows come in through a gap in the door. It's lovely to see the tiny babies faces poking out of their nests each year.

Anyway, it's been decided the staff need to use this space more efficiently - so a decision has been made to clear it up (including the nests) and block the door once the babies have flown. But I am concerned for next years' swallows.

I have already phoned the RSPB - they said that it is fine to clear the nests once they have gone and that the swallows will build another next year.

They also said not to bother with a manmade nest box...

Is this correct? Sorry to doubt the RSPB, but I just want to pass on the right info.

[evilgrayson]

This is indeed correct. They'll happily build more nests when they return next year.

In my experience, they'll also leave nestboxes for other species - they generally prefer something they've built themselves. If they can site a nest over a posh car, they're even happier.

[teknomage]

Returning swallows sometimes use existing nests if they are still in reasonable condition, but they are just as likely to build and use a new nest. Are you intending to block up swallow access to the building as well, or are you happy for them to return and build new nests in the same building next year? If you do prevent access to the existing building, are there alternative places the returning swallows could use next year?

Do make sure your swallows really have finished for the year before you remove the old nest, though. We have a pair that have already successfully raised one brood and the female is now sitting on a new clutch of eggs in the same old nest.

tekno.mage

[theanimallover]

Hi,
They are going to block off the area, so the swallows can't get back in. They have a clutch at the moment, literally just born - would this be their last do you think? How long til they have all left the nest completely?

I should think they will find somewhere else to nest, as it is in a farm building.

I did feel a bit upset about it when I heard they were destroying the nests - but it's not such bad news now I know they will return and build again (hopefully).

[teknomage]

I would think this would be the last brood, as they would normally be returning to Africa sometime towards the end of September. Also I know our swallow families still use their nest and building for a couple of weeks or so after the young have fledged for a safe roost at night. The youngsters will also use the cover of the building when starting to learn to fly, especially if the weather outside is bad. It would be best to wait until the swallows have left for Africa before blocking up the access.

tekno.mage