Wildlife

Wild Barn Swallow Conservation Welfare

Barn swallow conservation welfare requires protecting breeding sites in farm buildings alongside restoring insect-rich foraging habitats across agricultural landscapes.

Key Facts

UK barn swallow populations have declined by 50% since the 1970s
They breed almost exclusively in farm buildings and outbuildings with open access
Insect availability determines breeding success - food-stressed chicks may not fledge
Chemical fly control inside farm buildings reduces insect availability for swallow chicks
Farm building renovation that blocks access to swallows destroys active nests illegally

Welfare Considerations

Barn swallow welfare requires farm buildings to remain accessible during breeding and insect-rich habitats to support feeding. Sympathetic farm management enables coexistence that benefits both farmers and swallows.

What You Can Do

Maintain open access to farm buildings used by nesting barn swallows through the breeding season
Avoid chemical fly control inside buildings with active swallow nests
Record swallow breeding activity through BTO surveys to track population trends