Swift

Swift flying

The swift is one of the last summer migrants to arrive and the first to leave. It is obvious from its screeching calls as parties fly above the roofs of houses in towns and cities.

There is some evidence that swift populations are declining across the UK, and the latest State of the UK’s Birds report suggests that the UK’s swift population has declined by 26 per cent since 1994. A possible cause of a reduction in numbers is the loss of suitable nest sites. Many old buildings are demolished or renovated, depriving the birds of somewhere to raise their young.

Swifts spend their life almost entirely on the wing. They even feed, sleep and mate in flight and come to land only when nesting. They feed exclusively on insects, which they hoover up in their beaks in mid-air.

Studies of swifts have over the years have revealed some startling facts for the collector of trivia, particularly their ability to fly long distances. It is estimated that swifts fly (on average) a daily total of 800 km. In their average lifetime, this totals about 2 million km! In wet weather, swifts will travel between 1,000 and 2,000 km into continental Europe to feed. 

What do swifts need?

  • An abundant supply of insects - swifts hunt for insects over a wide area and range of habitats, from meadows, open water and over woods to the skies above towns and cities.
  • In order to breed, they require access to roof spaces in buildings where they construct their nest.

Register for Homes for Wildlife today and receive advice on how to help swifts, and other wildlife, in your home and garden by clicking on the link to the left.

Last modified: 23 October 2007