Barn Swallows

[Ginger1954]

For the last 3 years we have had barn swallows nest in our outside porch. Last year when we came back from holidays the nest had been attaked by a predator who destroyed the eggs. We look forward to having the swallows come back but have not seen them yet this year. Will they return again? Should we leave the nest and hope they will return next year?

[FCLightning]

Our barn swallows just showed up 4 days ago. They will return to the same nest if you leave it - unless something happened to them over the winter. One pair has not returned to the yard yet this year - but they occupied the nest for the past 4 years. Not sure what their lifespan is.

[TrapperMike]

Anyone know how to make artificial nests for barn swallows.

[alacringa]

Originally Posted by FCLightning

Our barn swallows just showed up 4 days ago. They will return to the same nest if you leave it - unless something happened to them over the winter. One pair has not returned to the yard yet this year - but they occupied the nest for the past 4 years. Not sure what their lifespan is.

I would have thought that anything past 4-5 years would be a bit elderly.

Originally Posted by TrapperMike

Anyone know how to make artificial nests for barn swallows.

They like to build their own. If you want to attract them, small sheltered ledge (search for "barn swallow nest platforms" if you need a plan) near a large open space.

[260 Rem]

Originally Posted by TrapperMike

Anyone know how to make artificial nests for barn swallows.

Just leave a pile of bird poop under where you want them to nest. They will probably build right above as it will make them feel at home