Barn Swallows build mud nests in eaves and overhangs on buildings. As a protected bird, once an egg is laid in a nest, the nest must remain intact until the hatchlings have left; you are encouraged to take proactive steps to prevent them from settling in and building nests, which can be both unsightly and damaging. Swallows, eating mainly insects, can be found in fields, meadows and rural areas, often choosing environments near the water. They will build semicircular nests under attics, sheds, buildings and bridges. Swallow nests and droppings may contain such grave diseases as histoplasmosis, encephalitis, salmonella, meningitis and toxoplasmosis and more. If you are not interested in having a nest build on your house the best way to get rid of swallows is to be proactive and discourage them from building nests in the first place. A few easy steps include: clean and disinfect any previous nesting areas to remove scents, install netting as a barrier and give the swallows an alternative by installing a swallow nesting box or platform on or near the home.
