19 May 2009

Ralph Mackridge, Project Manager for Exeter Wild City, has contacted Devon Birds seeking information about Swifts in Exeter.

Ralph writes: “The Exeter Wild City project aims to enhance the biodiversity of the city and engage residents and visitors in that process. There are a number of major projects that are currently in development under the EWC banner. To add to our list of projects I'm very taken with the idea of developing a project about Swifts in the city. Swifts are charismatic birds whose behaviour and life cycle are ideal for creating a sense of wonder and concern among people – and there are a lot of things that can be done to increase and protect their nesting sites in the city.”

Swift flying to nest site by Mike Langman

Before Ralph can develop the project further he needs to gather information about Swifts in Exeter – approximate numbers, concentrations of nesting sites, whether in decline, ideas for remedying the decline or encouraging more birds to nest.

Julia Harris, Assistant County Recorder, reports that a total of 11 reports were received for 2008 of Swifts in the Exeter area (three of which were probably repeats), with only one nesting site mentioned.

BTO Breeding Birds Survey (BBS) data indicate recent steep declines in Swift numbers throughout Britain, and there is every likelihood that the species’ official conservation status may change from the current ‘green’, to ‘amber’ or even ‘red’ in the near future. The lack of nesting opportunities in new and renovated buildings is thought to be one of the main factors behind this worrying trend.

If you can help Ralph in any way, including with sightings in the Exeter area for 2008 or 2009, please contact him at:

Ralph Mackridge
Exeter Wild City Project Manager
Devon Wildlife Trust
Cricklepit Mill
Commercial Road
Exeter EX2 4AB

Email: rmackridge@devonwildlifetrust.org
Tel: 01392 260837

Please also copy any records to Julia via devon-birdrecorder@lycos.com, putting ‘Swift’ in the subject line.

For more information about the Exeter Wild City project, visit www.exeterwildcity.org

For more information about Swifts generally, visit www.swift-conservation.org