Wildlife

Wild Barn Swallow Decline and Conservation

Barn swallow populations are declining across Europe due to insect prey collapse and loss of traditional farm buildings used as nesting sites.

Key Facts

UK barn swallow numbers have declined by 43% since 1970
Swallows require open-sided farm buildings with rafters for nest sites
Insect prey decline through agricultural intensification reduces chick survival
Swallows migrate to sub-Saharan Africa wintering grounds with their own threats
Open-fronted barn access and rough pasture insect diversity support swallow welfare

Welfare Considerations

Swallows experiencing food shortage must fly further for smaller catches, increasing adult mortality and chick starvation. The welfare cost of insect decline is experienced across individual birds raising failing broods. Insect-rich farmland and accessible farm buildings directly address individual swallow welfare.

What You Can Do

Advocate for agri-environment measures that support insect populations on farms
Support organisations monitoring and protecting swallow nest sites
Leave access to outbuildings for nesting swallows where possible