Swift bricks in new developments to provide nest sites for endangered birds

Swift bricks are a universal nest brick for small bird species, supported by national and local planning guidance (e.g. the LDNPA Design Code), so should be installed in all new developments in the district including extensions, in accordance with best-practice guidance such as BS 42021. This would provide long-term nest sites for our building-dependent bird species. Swifts Groups in the district can provide further advice, e.g. Crosby Ravensworth Swifts, Kendal Swifts, Penrith Swifts, Sedbergh Swifts, and Swifts in the Community.

Why the contribution is important

Our once familiar urban birds are now threatened with extinction in Westmorland & Furness and across the UK, as swifts, house sparrows, and house martins are all on the red list due to their rapid decline as nest sites in older buildings are lost due to demolition, renovations and extensions. These species are still relatively common when nest sites are available, but absent when there are none such as new-build estates - we need to replace the lost nest sites urgently.

by Amberlyn on August 05, 2024 at 10:17AM

Current Rating

Average rating: 5.0
Based on: 8 votes

Comments

  • Posted by petelancaster August 05, 2024 at 13:59

    An excellent idea. It is low cost and is an easily implemented practical measure that will help to tackle the problem of declining swift numbers.

  • Posted by sjrowlands August 05, 2024 at 14:13

    This is a simple and cost effective way to help swifts and many other cavity nesting birds. They should be mandatory in all new developments.

  • Posted by pamlancaster August 05, 2024 at 17:07

    A very good simple way of supporting swifts

  • Posted by Terrypalmer August 05, 2024 at 18:20

    A great idea suitable for new buildings and very effective at giving our red listed Swifts a place to rear their young.

  • Posted by Sweepie12 August 21, 2024 at 20:44

    I agree that the installation of swift bricks in new builds would be a simple, very necessary and effective method of helping towards the survival of one of nature's truly magical creatures. What possible objection could there be to making it a mandatory requirement at the planning stage of all new developments?

  • Posted by lafoster August 25, 2024 at 12:56

    This is a simple & low cost way to help support this amazing species. In the face of the biodiversity crisis - combined with the climate crisis - it is essential that we help species survive and thrive.

  • Posted by Kent September 02, 2024 at 12:11

    As we cover more of our land with buildings, nature will be forced to find ways of using it as a habitat. Swift bricks are a good way of providing opportunities for birds of many kinds, not just swifts.

  • Posted by gwentordoff September 02, 2024 at 20:40

    All new builds could incorporate swift bricks at very low cost to help swifts and other birds. With the possibility of more houses being built it’s an opportunity to help our endangered birds.

  • Posted by mikepWandF September 09, 2024 at 15:54

    As swift bricks are suitable for a wide range of small bird species they are relevant for all developments including extensions, and there is national best-practice guidance available such as BS 42021 or CIEEM which if followed will ensure appropriate numbers and locations.
Log in or register to add comments and rate ideas