Swallow Nests Halt Fiskars Tunnel Renovation for Weeks

Renovation work on the Fiskars road tunnel in Raasepori, Finland, has been temporarily suspended due to an unexpected discovery: five to six swallow nests containing chicks. The nests were found on top of the tunnel's light fixtures during dismantling as part of the renovation.

According to bridge engineer Henna Pakarinen from the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment of Uusimaa, the swallows are a protected species in Finland. Tunnel work will only resume once the young birds have left their nests, a process expected to take about four weeks. During this interruption, the tunnel will be reopened to traffic, although temporary traffic arrangements and restrictions will be in place to ensure safety, as the lighting system has been partially dismantled.

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It was quite a surprise that swallows nested in the tunnel.

Pakarinen expressed surprise at the swallows nesting in the tunnel. The 150-meter-long tunnel connects the villages of Pohja and Fiskars. Its renovation began on June 12 and is scheduled to conclude by the end of October. The temporary halt highlights the need to balance infrastructure projects with the protection of local wildlife.

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It will take about four weeks.