Help RSPB to help Swifts

 

The population of the common swift (apus apus) in the UK has fallen by more than 47% during the last ten years and they have moved from green to amber on the lists of British Birds of Conservation concern, 3% more would have seen them red listed!

 

The RSPB, BTO and Swift Conservation groups in various parts of the Country have been working on the problem for a number of years but there has been no concerted action in the South West.

 

We don’t know all the reasons why numbers are falling, but we do know that their nest sites are at risk. Our Swifts nest in buildings, mostly built before 1940 tucked into gaps under eaves or cracks in walls. When we renovate and improve our properties the temptation is to seal the roof space and block any gaps in brick or stonework, some have been demolished entirely.

 

Swifts share our towns and villages and whilst their nest sites are unobtrusive and easily missed, their aerial acrobatics and screaming parties are unmistakeable.

 

Nationally the Species Conservation Team at RSPB HQ Sandy initiated a survey last year to try and ascertain the whereabouts of nest sites and/or screaming parties, thousands responded and the resulting inventory will be available on the National Biodiversity Network website shortly, the work will be ongoing.

 

It is hoped to extend this campaign to architects, developers and the building trades to try to ensure that nest sites are not disturbed during the breeding season and that urban biodiversity is enhanced by incorporating nest boxes for swifts in known sites or in suitable new build projects

 

In the Southwest the RSPB have been advocating the above and are in discussion with Exeter City Council and Devon Wildlife Trust on Swift conservation incorporated in the Exeter Wild City project. We have also agreed to co-operate with Dorset Wildlife Trust and their Swift conservation project.

 

Our first priority on their return in May is to make sure that the inventory in the South West is as comprehensive as possible and we hope that everyone who welcomes Swifts in the summer will help.

 

Surveying swift populations is an inexact science and all we need to know is the location of known nest sites and/or screaming parties, it shouldn’t take much time and details can be submitted on line at www.rspb.org.uk/helpswifts or by completing the questionnaire in the RSPB Swifts Information Leaflet and returning it by free post to us at Sandy.

 

It would also be extremely useful to be advised if any actual or potential cases of disturbance are taking place so that appropriate action can be taken.

 

Further information, leaflets etc from Stephen.fitt@rspb.org.uk or ‘phone 01392 432691.