It’s been another unusual summer for weather. Climate change is happening fast and brings new challenges for wildlife including our beloved swifts. It is likely that the adults can tolerate higher temperatures. After all, they breed across Europe including in some very hot southern European areas. However, ‘our’ swifts will return to the same nesting sites year after year and many of those are increasingly unsuitable for raising young. Exposed sites, especially west or south facing, may just get too hot. That means well-sited nest boxes on our houses and buildings may be a significant help. North and east facing elevations are the best option for keeping cool. Swift bricks are also a great and keep cooler than an exposed box.

If you are thinking of putting up swift boxes (or installing swift bricks) just contact us at hexhamnature@transitiontynedale.co.uk and we can offer advice.

As I type this the last swifts will be leaving on migration. Click on this image from the RSPB and it will take you to their website and an animation showing the amazing route swifts take to Africa and back route.

This year’s survey results are not in yet but I can tell you that we have identified several new nesting sites around the town centre. For example, at the old Courant building we identified four nests, one more than last year. On an evening in late July we were thrilled to be joined by 40 people in Beaumont Street to watch the aerobatics of the swifts returning to these nests to roost.

There have been at least 2 reports of grounded swiftlets this year. Swifts which end up on the ground are in trouble as they can’t get airbourne again. They may be too young to fly. Even adults need height from which to drop, gain speed and lift. We’ve been in touch with a national network of people who rehabilitate stranded swifts.  One of our winter tasks is to set up  a better system to get birds to these dedicated people.

Looking after swift nestlings is a considerable commitment. If you are interested in this please get in touch at hexhamnature@transitiontynedale.co.uk.