Swifts and house martins: why they’re disappearing from our skies and what you can do

Survival against the odds 

Every spring, these extraordinary species journey thousands of miles from sub-Saharan Africa to breed in the UK. Upon arrival, they must secure nest sites and find enough insects - a food source now threatened by pesticide use and habitat loss - to nourish themselves and their young. Climate change and dwindling habitats have exacerbated their struggle, with British Trust for Ornithology data revealing a 44% decline in house martins and a staggering 66% drop in swifts since 1995. 

Our feathered neighbours 

Swifts, with their nearly airborne lifestyle, and house martins, known for their mud nests, have uniquely adapted to our urban landscapes. Swifts only land to breed and spend around nine months of the year in flight, even sleeping in the skies. Returning year after year to the same nesting sites, they depend on gaps in older architecture or the eaves of buildings for survival. 

However, modern building practices and renovations have closed off these vital sites, leaving them homeless. Even slight changes, like replacing traditional soffits with plastic, can have devastating consequences, as house martin nests fail to adhere and chicks fall to their deaths. 

Battling for a place to call home 

In our quest for energy-efficient homes, we’ve unintentionally turned our backs on some of nature’s most remarkable tenants. For example, house martin nests are often seen as a nuisance, leading some to illegally remove them, while swifts - silent, unobtrusive summer guests - can be entirely overlooked. Yet, when repairs to roofs or eaves block their entry points, these birds are left fighting against exhaustion and injury in desperate attempts to return to their nesting sites. This quiet tragedy highlights the hidden cost of progress and the urgent need for coexistence with our feathered neighbours. 

Building a future for wildlife 

Fortunately, there’s hope. Swift bricks, cleverly designed nesting spaces, and artificial house martin nesting cups offer practical, affordable solutions. Easily incorporated into new buildings or retrofitted to existing ones, these spaces not only support these birds but enrich our connection with nature. Protecting existing nests is equally vital, and simple acts can ensure our homes remain welcoming sanctuaries for wildlife. 

Empowering action 

Creating insect-friendly gardens with pollinator plants, ponds, and compost bins can restore their food sources. On a broader scale, challenging the use of pesticides and prioritising biodiversity in public spaces can make a tangible difference. These efforts benefit not only wildlife but human communities, fostering a healthier, more sustainable environment for all. 

Join the movement 

Take part in safeguarding our summer skies by connecting with local swift groups. Learn more about their incredible work through Swift Conservation or initiatives like Chirk Swifts and House Martins, which promote nest box installation and community engagement. Together, we can ensure these birds continue to thrive for generations to come. 

Find out more here.  

Be part of the story 

Share the magic of these incredible birds by capturing their visits to your home. Whether it’s swifts and house martins building nests, gliding through summer skies, or enjoying the wildlife-friendly spaces you’ve created, sharing your photos and stories can inspire others to take action and celebrate biodiversity. 

 About the author 

The author Hayley Garrod launched the Chirk Swifts and House Martins project with her partner Daniel Mullock in 2021 to combat the decline of swifts. As Canal and River Trust employees, they care for a thriving colony of around 25 nesting pairs on Chirk Aqueduct. The project has created over 150 swift nest sites, including in 2 church towers, and actively engage the community in conservation efforts. Many of their nesting boxes are now occupied, and their network of swift custodians continues to expand. 

Photography credits

Swift image: David Naylor

House martin nest: Craig Richardson