Buildings Are Modified At Twycross Zoo To Accommodate Wild Swifts

By Kim Riley

Twycross, UK - Twycross Zoo swoops in to save the Swift!

A UK-wide survey carried out by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds and British Trust for Ornithology RSPB/BTO has suggested that the UK Swift population has declined by a shocking 26% percent. This worrying level of decline could lead to the disappearance of this particular bird from our skies.

Swifts love to nest in roof spaces, roof tiles and holes in brickwork. Unfortunately, these sites are all too easily removed during property renovation, potentially denying the Swifts opportunities to nest. The RSPB is concerned that the UK’s swift population may suffer if suitable sites aren’t made available.

Twycross Zoo is hoping to help the population of Swifts by increasing the number of potential nesting sites around the zoo’s premises. These will comprise of six nesting locations within the grounds.

This project has been very kindly supported by Ibstock Brick who has donated six brick nest boxes to Twycross Zoo.

Mr Andrew Halstead-Smith from Ibstock Brick said, “Ibstock Brick is delighted to help Twycross Zoo in the provision of addition habitats for Swifts in the redevelopment of the main reception building. The inclusion of the Ibstock Swift Boxes near the building’s eaves is an ideal use of the product and should provide a safe environment for nesting Swifts.

Dr. Darren Moorcroft, Head of Conservation Advice, said "Safeguarding existing nest sites and providing nest boxes for Swifts are one of the most practical ways we can all help these magnificent, yet declining birds.  The boxes at Twycross will no doubt give these birds the opportunity to impress visitors to the Zoo throughout the summer when they return from Africa"

If you would like to help restore the Swift to our countryside you can contact Twycross Zoo for more information on conservation@twycrosszoo.org  

Twycross Zoo
Atherstone
Warwickshire
CV9 3PX 

Office 01827 880 250
Mobile 07891 896179