Research and Surveys
In the 70s and early 80s, surveys of swift colonies
were carried out in Northampton, Sheffield and Sussex. In order
to measure the degree of decline in the size and number of swift
colonies, repeat surveys were carried out in the period 1998-2001
in Northampton and Sussex. The results indicated a decline of about
18%. To qualify for the RSPB's amber list of birds of conservation
concern, a proven decline of 25% is needed. For this reason, and
also because of the lack of a standardised methodology, the swift
was not added to the amber list. To remedy the latter, the RSPB
conducted a pilot survey in St Neots, Cambs, from which it is hoped
a standard survey methodology will be derived so that future survey
results will be scientifically acceptable.
Sheffield survey
This was carried out in 1979 and 1980 by members of the Sheffield
Bird Study Group. The results published in the group's journal,
The Magpie Vol 3 1984 "J Hornbuckle Survey of Swifts Breeding
in the Sheffield Area". Unfortunately, the Group has not been
able to carry out a repeat survey. For further information, contact
Jon Hornbuckle email: kagu@blueyonder.co.uk
Northants surveys
The results of the 1978 survey are to be found in the 1979 Northants
Bird Report. For further information about the 1998 repeat survey,
contact Phil Richardson, Tel: 01604 770362
Sussex surveys
For details of the Sussex surveys, contact Graham Roberts [hyperlink]
or visit the Sussex Ornithological Society website at www.susos.org.uk.
Cheshire survey
In 1995, a survey of summering swifts in Cheshire and the Wirral
was carried out under the auspices of CAWOS (Chehire and Wirral
Ornithological Society), and the results published in a report "A
Survey of Summering Swifts in Cheshire and Wirral and their Conservation
Status, ed Brian Martin.
North Lanarkshire survey
Survey carried out in 2001 following the adoption of the Swift
Species Action Plan by the local council. Details from Clare Darlaston.
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Oxford Swift
Project
The project has been running since Dr David Lack began it in 1947,
starting with a few pairs nesting in cavities in the tower of the
Oxford City Museum. There are now 147 nestboxes in the tower. Three
webcams have been installed and these are set up on active boxes
throughout the season. Each year an average of about 90 pulli are
ringed each year and about 40+ of the adults handled.
For more information and to view the webcams during the breeding
season, visit the website in the Links section.
(Information supplied by George Candelin & Roy Overall).
Muckamore Swift Project
The Muckamore Swift Project. For further details, contact Ken
Perry, University of Ulster, email kennethwilliamperry@hotmail.com
Several individuals have ongoing projects to monitor
swift colonies in their area:
Portsmouth
[details Graham Roberts [hyperlink]
North Kesteven, Lincolnshire
[details, Steve Keightley [hyperlink]
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