Swallows will readily adopt these nest cups which are based on the size and shape of natural swallow nests. The nest cup is ideal for placing in a garage, shed, stable, barn or even beneath an archway. It provides somewhere secure for swallows to nest and means that they will expend less energy in producing their own nest. It also means that they do not need to find suitable nest building mud which can be in short supply in a dry spring. The nest cup consists of a moulded resin/concrete bowl with drainage hole, fixed to a 100% recycled plastic backing plate.
The nest cup is easy to fix to your wall; it slots over two screws with a third hole at the base for securing it in place. Removal for cleaning after the breeding season is also easy, simply undo the screw at the base and lift off.
Swallows are sociable birds but the nest cups should not be placed too close together. A minimum distance of 1m between nest cups is recommended. To ensure the swallows have sufficient room in the nest cup and when arriving and leaving there should be at least 6cm free space above the nest cup. When choosing a suitable spot for the nest it is essential that birds have constant access throughout the breeding season. If you are siting the cup in a shed or other outhouse, this may mean leaving a window or door open permanently.