The common swift (Apus apus) is one of the most remarkable birds in Britain, spending most of its life on the wing and only landing to nest. Despite this extraordinary lifestyle, swift populations have declined by around 60% in the UK since 1995, driven primarily by loss of nest sites in buildings.
Swifts arrive in the UK in late April/early May from sub-Saharan Africa and depart by early August. They are among the last migrants to arrive and first to leave. Young swifts, once fledged, may remain airborne for 2-4 years before returning to land to breed. Swifts feed exclusively on aerial insects and spiders, and are highly sensitive to weather conditions that reduce prey availability.
Swift bricks — specially designed building bricks with integral nest chambers — are increasingly required or recommended in new construction and major renovation projects in the UK. Natural England and RIBA have published guidance on swift-friendly construction. Swift nest boxes (external and loft-entry designs) can also be successful if sited correctly: south-facing high on buildings, with an unobstructed flight approach.
Swifts are highly site-faithful and investigate potential colony sites by responding to the calls of established birds. Playing swift calls near new nest sites significantly increases the likelihood of colonisation. Audio lures have been used successfully to establish new swift colonies in the UK. Networks like Action for Swifts and Swift Conservation provide guidance on attracting swifts.
Active swift nests are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. Any building works affecting active nests require mitigation. An increasing number of local planning authorities now require swift-friendly provisions as a planning condition, particularly in swift conservation areas. Developer guidance and local swift groups support compliance.
Injured or grounded swifts require specialist care. Swifts cannot take off from flat ground (their short legs and long wings make this impossible) and any swift found on the ground is in distress. Swift rehabilitation requires trained carers: contact RSPCA, local wildlife hospitals, or the Swift Conservation network for specialist advice.