Swiftly moving on : RSPB want our help to track declining birds
The RSPB need our help to monitor the number of swifts in our skies. The birds, which incredibly spend 99% of their time on the wing, have declined in number by 21% between 1994-2005. It's believed a lack of suitable nesting sites may be to blame, as old buildings are demolished or renovated around the city and countryside. The RSPB are asking the public to complete a survey to help them determine if the numbers are still dropping, and if there are areas of the country where the situation is better or worse. Obviously they don't expect you to count them one by one, but there are some general guidelines to assist you. The survey can be completed any time over the Summer months, and the best time of day is from early evening until dusk.
Related: RSPB Great Garden Birdwatch - results are in! | Learn birdsong the fun way with this RSPB wall clock
This is what to look for:
* Flocks of swifts gathering to feed on insects high in the sky.
* Swifts seen or heard 'screaming' at low altitude in close proximity to your home. These are likely to be nesting in the vicinity.
* Family parties of birds with recently fledged young 'screaming' as they fly up and down streets at, or below, roof level from mid-late July.
* Swifts entering or leaving your roof.
Your results can be submitted online here.
