Wildlife

UK Sand Martin and Swallow Comparative Welfare

Comparative welfare and conservation of sand martins and swallows sharing UK aerial insect habitats.

Key Facts

Sand martins and swallows both feed on aerial insects but exploit different foraging niches
Sand martins typically forage lower over water while swallows forage over land
Both species are declining as aerial insect populations shrink through pesticide use
Migration challenges are significant welfare costs for both species
Cohabitation at wetland sites with both suitable foraging and nesting habitat is beneficial

Welfare Considerations

Individual sand martins and swallows face parallel welfare pressures from aerial insect decline, with pesticide reduction delivering welfare benefits for both species.

What You Can Do

Reduce pesticide use in gardens and farms to support aerial insect populations
Support wetland habitats that provide foraging for both sand martins and swallows
Record hirundine population changes to assist BTO monitoring