Wildlife

Wild Barn Swallow Population Decline

Barn swallow populations are declining across Europe as aerial insect prey disappears from agricultural landscapes.

Key Facts

European swallow populations have declined by 36 percent over 25 years
Aerial insect biomass has declined by over 70 percent in intensively farmed areas
Each breeding pair requires thousands of aerial insects daily to raise two broods
Swallows have extended migration routes and can no longer feed adequately along traditional corridors
Loss of nesting sites in modern sealed buildings compounds food scarcity problems

Welfare Considerations

Swallows unable to find sufficient insects face prolonged breeding failure and chick starvation. Food stress during breeding causes physiological compromise in both adults and dependent chicks.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes that reduce pesticide use on farmland
Leave access holes in farm buildings for nesting swallows
Advocate for insect-friendly farming policies that maintain aerial prey for migratory birds