Leave the birds alone

The Guardia Civil periodically issues a warning through their social profiles about the importance of not removing the nests of swallows, house martins and swifts from the street, from the corners of the facades of houses, or from any other public space.

Removing swallow nests is illegal in Spain and this action is considered a serious offence regulated by law in Royal Decree 139/2011 and by the European Bird Directive of 2009. But what consequences can it have?

Swallows and their role in pest control

The authorities warn that if you want to remove nests of any of these birds from the facade of the house, the first thing you should do is consult with the municipal authority, since it is an infraction punishable by a fine of up to 200,000 euro as they are protected by the Heritage Law.

But not only that. swallows, swifts, and house martins eat up to 800 insects per day. This means that “there is no more efficient or ecological insecticide”, indicates the Guardia Civil, so their role in controlling insect pests is essential in the environment.

A similar situation occurs for bats. Although you may install a bat house, once fitted, it must not be taken down. Bats also provide an effective control over insects, including mosquitoes, and so their growth allows the control of insects without the need for pesticides that can be harmful to both the environment, and to humans.

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