One of the most popular visitors during the summer, housing renovation and a loss of nest sites have led to a very significant decline in swift numbers, particularly in the east end of Glasgow.

Each August they make the long journey to Africa for the winter, returning in May to Glasgow, each pair faithful to its last year’s nest site. Loss of nest sites is therefore a critical factor for these charismatic birds.

It is hoped swifts will be attracted to their new homes on Calvay’s clock tower and so keep the local swift population returning during the summer months.

Clare Darlaston from Concern for Swifts (Scotland) said: “I was happy to advise on the best solution for the swift boxes. There used to be a healthy population of swifts in the local area. The hope is that these boxes will encourage them to come back.”

Calvay Housing Association contractor Simpson Timber Systems paid for the cherry picker needed to access the clock tower and the electrical work to install audible swift callers was provided to Calvay free by electrical contractor T.R. Aitchison.

Nick Dangerfield, director of Calvay, said: “We are grateful to our contractors for generously paying for the costs of installing these swift boxes. We’ll be keeping a close eye out for any new tenants of these specially designed homes.”