Swifts face record numbers of grounded fledglings

Record numbers of young swifts are being found grounded across the UK, with rescue volunteers reporting unprecedented numbers of casualties. The hot weather is forcing fledglings out of their nests prematurely, overwhelming specialist care networks.

Swift SOS, a network of volunteers, has handled nearly 800 grounded swift casualties UK-wide this year. Graeme Bowd, who helps run Swift SOS, stated that during the recent hot weather, the organisation was receiving up to 50 grounded birds a day, which he described as unprecedented.

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Swifts nest in urban areas, favouring the nooks and crannies of older buildings. However, modern renovations often seal these nesting sites, contributing to a 60% decline in swift numbers since the mid-1990s, placing them on the UK's Red List. The current heatwaves exacerbate the problem, as young birds in nests under roof tiles struggle with the extreme heat and jump out before they are ready to fly.

Grounded fledglings require intensive specialist care, including rehydration and feeding with insects like crickets, for two to three weeks before they can be released. Bowd emphasised that these birds can be successfully rehabilitated if they reach the right people.

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London and the Home Counties are experiencing a significant number of these cases due to the large swift populations that nest in the region. Residents in areas like West Hampstead have noted large numbers of swifts, with one observer remarking on seeing up to 40 at once.

What to do if you find a grounded swift

Swift SOS advises against throwing a grounded bird back into the air or feeding it. Instead, finders should place the bird in a secure, ventilated box in a warm, dark, and quiet location. Hydration can be offered via a cotton bud, but the bird should not be taken to a vet. Contacting Swift SOS as soon as possible is recommended.