Construction on a lock in the Dutch city of Wijk bij Duurstede was able to continue this week after swallow nests in the lock were removed. Replacement of a lock door had been postponed last week with the discovery of the nests. When the nests were removed, 23 hatchlings were brought to a shelter.
Because the Barn Swallow is a protected species, the nests could only be removed after consultation with the Dutch Land and Nature Ministry. Swallow nest boxes have been placed around the lock to provide the birds with alternative nesting sites.
