On 29th June 2024, I recorded the first Swift of the year from my flat. I have also seen a few Swifts around St. Nicholas Church again this year starting with my first record on 11th May 2024 but the scarcity of sightings both locally and elsewhere is undoubtedly a very concerning reflection of the sharp and continuing decrease in the Swift population across the UK in recent years.
In the UK, the Common Swift, usually referred to as just the Swift, is a summer visitor from late April to late August.
The UK's Swifts are in serious trouble. It is estimated that their population has deceased by 57% between 1995 and 2017, primarily due to the application of pesticides and habitat destruction which has affected their insect food supply. The modernisation of many buildings has also resulted in the loss of roof nesting sites. More information can be found at Swift Conservation.
I recently contacted the new Government regarding the campaign to try and save our Swifts .... SS15 wildlife watching: Save our Swifts!
This evening at 6:50 p.m., I recorded just my second Swift of the year from my flat, a single bird which flew around briefly before moving on. It is extremely concerning that I am now seeing so few of these wonderful birds but at least I had a late record to finish the year. Whether Swifts return next spring and summer remains to be seen.
No comments:
Post a Comment
If you feel like commenting on my blog, you can contact me by completing the comment form below. I will respond to all comments and enquiries and constructive criticism will always be welcomed.