Wildlife

Barn Swallow Nest Site Welfare and Agricultural Change

Barn swallows depend on open farm buildings for nesting and on insect-rich farmland for food, making them sensitive indicators of agricultural change.

Key Facts

UK barn swallow populations have declined by 40% since the 1970s
Modern farm buildings with sealed access prevent nest site entry
Swallows need exposed mud for nest construction and open water for drinking
Flying insects - their sole food source - have declined dramatically in agricultural landscapes

Welfare Considerations

Food scarcity during prolonged cold or wet weather causes chick starvation. Loss of accessible nest sites leads to displaced nesting in suboptimal locations. Farm building design profoundly affects welfare.

What You Can Do

Advocate for nest site access provisions in farm building planning applications
Support agri-environment measures that fund insect-rich field margins
Create muddy water access points near farms to support nest building