Introduction
In recent years, the decline in the population of Swifts, one of our most captivating birds, has been a cause for concern among conservationists.
Swifts are known for their remarkable aerial acrobatics and their migratory journeys that span thousands of miles. However, their numbers have significantly dwindled due to the loss of suitable nesting sites.
To combat this issue, Ealing Wildlife Group (EWG) is running a Swift project aimed at providing vital nesting spaces for these magnificent birds. By installing 160 Swift boxes across Ealing, the project has made remarkable progress in helping the Swifts by providing nesting sites.
Phase One: Championing Swift Nesting
Over two years, EWG, supported by its passionate members and some hardy volunteers, have worked towards implementing the Swift project in Ealing.
The first phase involved the installation of 160 Swift boxes in strategic locations across the borough including schools, houses and churches. These specially designed boxes mimic the natural nesting sites that Swifts prefer, providing them with safe and suitable habitats.
Swift Champions were appointed across the installation sites in Ealing to ensure the project’s success. They have played a crucial role in raising awareness about the Swift project, encouraging residents to get involved, monitoring the nesting boxes and playing Swift calls to direct Swifts to their new homes. Their dedication and enthusiasm have been instrumental in fostering a sense of community and shared responsibility for Swift conservation.
Phase Two: Collaborating for a Swift Future
Having completed the initial phase, the Swift project in Ealing is now entering an exciting new stage. This unfunded phase focuses on collaborating with building companies across Ealing to incorporate Swift boxes or universal nesting into their new developments.
By highlighting Ealing Council’s biodiversity plan, the project aims to encourage companies building in Ealing to integrate Swift conservation into the very fabric of the borough’s urban landscape.
The collaboration with building companies is a crucial step in expanding the reach of the Swift project. By incorporating Swift boxes during the construction or renovation process, developers can contribute to the preservation of Swift habitats without compromising the functionality or aesthetics of their buildings.
This innovative approach ensures a win-win situation for both the birds and the built environment.
Benefits of Swift Boxes in Building Developments
Implementing Swift boxes in building developments offers several benefits.
Firstly, it provides Swifts with essential nesting spaces, enabling them to breed and raise their young successfully. This is vital for the long-term survival and population growth of these red-listed birds.
Secondly, incorporating Swift boxes demonstrates a commitment to sustainable and wildlife-friendly practices. It showcases the responsible development of urban areas, enhancing the overall biodiversity and ecological balance of the locality. Swift boxes also present a unique opportunity for residents and visitors to observe and appreciate these captivating birds, fostering a deeper connection with nature.
Final words
The Swift project in Ealing, led by the Ealing Wildlife Group, is an influential and inspiring initiative to conserve the dwindling Swift population. Through the installation of 160 Swift boxes and the dedicated efforts of Swift Champions and volunteers, the project has laid a solid foundation for conserving these remarkable birds.
As the project moves into its next phase, collaborating with building companies to integrate Swift boxes into new developments, the EWG Swift project is set to make an even greater impact. By combining the efforts of the community, local government, and the construction industry, we can create a harmonious environment where humans and Swifts can coexist and thrive.
The Swift project serves as a shining example of how local initiatives, supported by passionate individuals and organisations, can make a significant difference in safeguarding our natural heritage. Through collective commitment and continued collaboration, we can ensure a brighter and more sustainable future for the red-listed Swifts in Ealing and beyond.
Thank you so much to everyone who has contributed funds, time and good wishes to this project. If you want to get involved and support our small team of trusty volunteers, please contact Fiona at ealing.wildlife.group.volunteers@gmail.com. And if you haven’t got much time, you can help by looking up to the sky for Swifts, keeping your eyes peeled for nesting birds, and recording as much as you can on the SwiftMapper App or webpage (https://www.swiftmapper.org.uk/) to help with conservation efforts.
Fiona McIntyre is our Swift Project Leader and also manages our Volunteers programmes.