First swift sightings report here!

Pigeon feather · #1 (**permalink**) 12-04-2010, 07:51 PM

I now have my swift box installed on the side of my house, unfortunately within 24 hours of putting it up a pair of sparrows attempted to move in

because of this I have had to block up the hole but will re open it as soon as the first swifts arrive in the Uk, please can you all keep your eyes peeled and your ears open to inform me of any sightings, thank you!

ChrisJB · #2 (**permalink**) 12-04-2010, 08:32 PM

Poor sparrows. I'd let them take over! Let us know if the swifts do move in though as I've heard that swift nest box take up rates are pretty low. Folks suggest playing a c.d of screaming swift sounds from a nearby open window to attract them.
My local swifts usually get back around the 3rd May.

Regards, Chris

Pigeon feather · #3 (**permalink**) 13-04-2010, 09:11 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChrisJB

Poor sparrows. I'd let them take over! Let us know if the swifts do move in though as I've heard that swift nest box take up rates are pretty low. Folks suggest playing a c.d of screaming swift sounds from a nearby open window to attract them.
My local swifts usually get back around the 3rd May.

Regards, Chris

It's ok, I already have sparrow boxes up for them too

I have downloaded a recording of screaming swifts and will play it out of the bathroom window when they appear, may get some strange looks from the neighbours though!

RJG1952 · #4 (**permalink**) 20-04-2010, 10:05 AM

Saw my first Swifts of the year yesterday 19th April at Old Moor RSPB reserve in South Yorkshire

Pigeon feather · #5 (**permalink**) 20-04-2010, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RJG1952

Saw my first Swifts of the year yesterday 19th April at Old Moor RSPB reserve in South Yorkshire

Thank you! that's a bit early though isn't it? especially up North

I'm in the South and have yet to see any, will keep a look out now though, thanks again

Adam Cheeseman · #6 (**permalink**) 20-04-2010, 10:50 AM

To deter sparrows use some weighted string and place in front of the box so that they can't fly to the box without colliding with the string. Swifts use a much steeper (near vertical) approach to their nest sites so won't get put off.

Cheers,

Adam

RobinP · #7 (**permalink**) 20-04-2010, 06:47 PM

First Swifts reported in Herts today

Pigeon feather · #8 (**permalink**) 29-04-2010, 08:06 PM

Finally heard some swifts this afternoon, so they are here

can't unblock the hole till tom evening though but hopefully the sparrows will leave it be now

Guinnessman1974 · #9 (**permalink**) 30-04-2010, 07:44 PM

I live in Shropshire.

Counted 3 Swifts last night, and 18 this evening!

Pigeon feather · #10 (**permalink**) 30-04-2010, 08:00 PM

Cool

I spotted two swifts this afternoon after hearing the screaming no where near the house though, does anyone know when they actively start looking for nesting places? not sure if they are just pairing at the moment, we can't unblock the hole till tomorrow now as it was too windy to get up the ladder this evening.