Oxford University Museum of Natural History is encouraging people to install swift nesting boxes on their homes as the bird species continues to face a significant population decline across the United Kingdom.

Swifts have returned to nest at the museum every year for around 80 years, but staff say their numbers have dropped sharply during the past decade.

According to the museum, the species has experienced a 47% national decline, largely because of the loss of traditional nesting spaces.

Swifts typically nest in roof gaps, attics, and older buildings, but modern construction methods and loft conversions are removing many of the spaces the birds rely on for breeding.

To help support the population, the museum’s tower currently contains 80 specially designed swift boxes that provide safe nesting sites.

Chris Jarvis explained that swifts now depend heavily on human-built environments because many of the old-growth forests where they historically nested no longer exist.

Swifts are considered one of the most remarkable migratory bird species due to their ability to remain airborne for extended periods.

The birds can spend up to 10 months continuously in flight, sleeping, eating, and even mating while airborne, only landing to breed during nesting season.

Because they rely so heavily on specific nesting locations, conservationists warn that habitat loss poses a serious threat to their survival.

Wildlife experts say installing swift boxes on buildings is one of the simplest and most effective ways for the public to help protect the species.

Conservation groups across the UK have increasingly promoted urban bird-friendly designs, encouraging homeowners, schools, and public buildings to create safe nesting spaces for declining bird populations.

The museum hopes greater awareness and community involvement can help slow the decline and preserve swift populations for future generations.

Experts say even small changes in urban planning and home renovations can make a major difference in protecting nesting habitats for birds like swifts.