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A CHIMNEY SWIFT TOWER AT SPICEWOOD, TEXAS |
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On site construction was begun by clearing a 10’ x 10’ area and excavating a 5’ x 5’ area 3” deep. A 10” tall, 4’ x 4’ form was set in the excavation, leveled and secured with several sturdy 2” x 4” wooden stakes. |
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The tower base was set in place, leveled and secured to the construction scaffold. As soon as a 2 level grid of 3/8” steel rebar was wired to the legs of the tower base, a 10” thick concrete slab was poured. |
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The tower consisted of three 4’ sections. Each section is constructed of 5/8” T1-11 siding with the grooves running horizontally and facing the inside of each section — providing horizontal grooves for the Chimney Swifts to hold on to. |
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As each section was put in place, it was secured by attaching corner pieces to the outside of each corner. |
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The corner braces created an air space between the inner and outer walls of the tower. This space was filled with 3/4” rigid insulation board — an important feature to protect the nest chamber from the relentless heat of the Texas summer sun. |
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Once the insulation and outer wall were in place, a top was placed on the tower. The top has a hole cut on the north edge that is half the size of the actual inside of the tower. This will provide the Chimney Swifts with more protection from the mid-day sun and rain. The 2” x 2” trim around the opening will prevent rain water from pooling on the top and entering the nest chamber. |
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The outer corners of the Chimney Swift tower were finished with stained cedar trim boards not only for appearance, but to weatherproof the tower. |
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The last part of the tower was a 24” band of galvanized metal flashing. This will act as a predator guard against snakes and mammals that may attempt to climb the tower. |
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The tower was also protected from insect predators from the bottom. A 2” band of Tanglefoot (brand) insect trap was placed around each leg. This will prevent Imported Fire Ants from climbing into the tower and killing the hatchling Chimney Swifts and driving off the parents. The Tanglefoot will need to be replaced each spring. |
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With forms and braces removed, and the area restored and watered, the native wild flowers will quickly reclaim the area around the Spicewood Chimney Swift Tower.
For information on how to obtain a copy of our 96 page construction guide Chimney Swift Towers: New Habitat for America’s Mysterious Birds Click here or contact: Paul and Georgean Kyle C/O Chimney Swift Conservation Association 2121 Lohman’s Crossing Road, Suite 5045-306 Lakeway, Texas 78734 or
To view Chimney Swift Tower Construction Videos: CLICK HERE |