Building design changes are reducing available nest sites for Common Swifts (Apus apus) in Britain. Is this really a cause for concern? Where did Common Swifts breed before there were buildings in Britain? This is an old debate, but it does beg the question of whether resources could be better utilized protecting more critically endangered species. As an aside, it’s not often that entire websites are dedicated to one species, but if you want to know more about Common Swift check out this site. Here’s more from the RSPB:
You know summer has arrived when you see swifts speeding through the air, screaming their heads off and swooping into crevices in buildings. But fewer and fewer of us are enjoying this spectacle as we have discovered that the swift is in serious trouble. Swift numbers have declined by 47% in the last ten years. And for the first time, the summer migrant has been added to the amber list meaning it is of serious conservation concern. A major cause of this decline is believed to be the loss of nest sites through building improvement or demolition. They nest almost exclusively on buildings, so they really need our help. [more here]
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