Swift brick

Swift brick is a hollow construction brick containing a cavity, so that swifts can nest within them. They were developed in response to a decline in swift populations in the United Kingdom, a likely cause for which is loss of nesting sites.

Background

Swifts are small migratory birds which predominantly reside in sub-Saharan Africa, but summer in temperate countries to breed. The common swift historically nested in small cavities within cliffs and crags, but has adapted to Anthropocene conditions by nesting in nooks and cavities in the exterior of buildings.

Since the mid-1970s, declining swift populations have been recorded in Great Britain, accelerating to an estimated 57% decline in abundance between 1995 and 2017.

Properties

Swift nesting bricks are rectangular, hollow structures containing a small aperture for Swifts to enter and exit. They can be made of concrete, brick and concrete, or [Polyvinyl chloride|uPVC] with a polypropylene exterior. The bricks are designed for installation high up within the exterior of buildings.

UK legislative proposal

There is an active cross-party parliamentary campaign to make the installation of swift bricks compulsory in new building projects in the United Kingdom.