We were delighted that the swifts returned this year in similar numbers to last year and that three sites where roof work had been carried out still welcomed swifts. It shows what can be done with a bit of care - by avoiding the nesting season and leaving access holes open. You can help by following Swift Conservation’s clear advice on roof repairs https://www.swift-conservation.org/Re-Roofing.htm. It works!
Not only that, one swift box put up by the swift group 7 years ago was finally occupied! So be patient if your box is not yet in use by swifts, they are creatures of habit.
In total we recorded 24 active swift nests, one more than last year. Two were newly recorded sites and swifts were investigating several others.
We also had a successful swift rescue. If you see a swift on the ground it is in trouble. Swifts never land on the ground and only stop flying when they are nesting. So when Sally saw a stunned and stranded swift on Acre End Street she scooped it up, looked after it and delivered it to Tiggywinkles wildlife hospital. We heard that the swift survived to fly another day.
Our swift walk during Swift Awareness Week was so popular we split into two groups and we were treated to some fantastic aerial displays. There were also some inspirational swift talks including the intrepid campaigner for swift bricks in new homes, Hannah Bourne-Taylor. Check out her website for some amazing photos of her action. https://hannahbournetaylor.com
Until next year and the next swifts
Eynsham swift group