Barn Swallow

Nest structure Plan and Information

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Barn Swallow
© Richard Richtmyer
Construction difficulty:
kid-friendly
moderate

Download Nest Structure Plan

Species in decline

This species is in decline in certain regions. You can put up a nest box to help if you live in the right region and habitat.

  • Declining
  • Not declining
  • Not present
Source: USGS

Nesting Range

Barn Swallow Range Source: Birds of the World

Nesting Habitat

  • Grassland
  • Lake
  • Shore
  • Town

Attach Nest Box To

  • Building

Known Nesting Period

Not Nesting
Some Nesting Occurrence
Nesting in Most of Range
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Source: Birds of the World

Nest Box Placement

Nest Height:
7ft
12ft

7–12 feet

Minimum Spacing:

5 feet

Facing:

Any

Helpful Tips

  • Mount the shelf on a building in a sheltered site, under the eaves or soffits, or over a light fixture.
  • Do not mount the shelf near an active doorway (swallows will defend the nest against passersby).
  • Swallows must have a source of mud nearby. You can make a mud puddle with a garden hose for them if necessary.

Did you know that NestWatch is seeking more data on this species?

Learn about Barn Swallow here.