Swallows Take to Modern Homes with a Little Help: Artificial Nests to the Rescue
Return of Swallows Signals Installation of Artificial Nests - Return of Swallows - Implementation of Artificial Homes
Calling all nature lovers in Hessen, Germany! It's time to open our homes to our feathered friends, the swallows! This iconic migratory bird, known for their aerial acrobatics, is facing a dwindling habitat due to modern living.
Berthold Langenhorst, the managing director of German Nature Conservation Union (NABU) in Hessen, based in Wetzlar, informs us that the barn swallow and house swallow populations are on the decline. The culprit? Shrinking insect populations, lack of nesting spots on modern, smooth, and closed facades, and the over-asphalting of field paths.
But here's some good news! Swallows readily accept artificial nests, making it an ideal solution for conservationists and local residents alike.
House Swallow: Protected Roof Overhangs, Please!
The house swallow, recognized by its bright white belly, dark upper side, and deeply notched tail, prefers covered roof overhangs at least 2.5 meters high. It's essential to steer clear of west-facing facades as they often provide rainy and windy environments.
Barn Swallow: Historical Chimneys, Meet Modern Walls
Barn swallows, with their characteristic brown-red throat and forehead and long, deeply forked tail, once resided in open chimneys and smokestacks. Now, they're more than happy to dwell in artificial nests, provided they can access the building through openings.
Swallow-Friendly Homes: Bridging the Infrastructure Gap
Swallow droppings and nest debris can be a nuisance for some homeowners. NABU suggests placing a simple board half a meter below the nests or regular cleaning as practical solutions to this issue. Apart from controlling the mess, these simple acts ensure a comfortable and safe environment for our avian friends.
Remember, swallow nests are legally protected, so don't remove them without permission from your local nature conservation authority. On the other hand, providing a home for these lovely little acrobats on a "swallow-friendly house" can get you a commendable plaque from NABU!
Installing Artificial Nests for Swallows: A How-To
Want to do your bit for swallow conservation in Hessen, Germany? Here's a handy guide:
1. Location
- Place nests under eaves, porches, inside open barns/sheds, or away from busy entrances and enclosed spaces.
2. Height & Orientation
- Install at least 2.5 meters above ground and protect from direct sunlight, strong winds, and busy areas.
3. Social Structure
- Encourage colonial nesting by installing multiple nest boxes in a cluster.
4. Timing
- Install nest boxes late winter to early spring.
5. Materials & Installation
- Use durable materials and securely attach the nest boxes to prevent damage.
6. Maintenance
- Inspect and clean regularly to prevent disease and parasite buildup.
By following these guidelines, you'll not only create a haven for swallows but also contribute to the vibrant birdlife in Hessen, Germany!
- The German Nature Conservation Union (NABU) in Hessen is urging homeowners to install artificial nests to help increase the population of house swallows and barn swallows, which are currently declining due to a lack of nesting spots on modern buildings.
- Bernhard Langenhorst, the managing director of NABU in Hessen, emphasized that the provision of artificial nests could bridge the infrastructure gap for swallows, as they readily accept these man-made alternatives.
- In addition, the installation of artificial nests can also earn homeowners a commendation from NABU, while protecting a species that is legally protected in Germany.
