New Survey Launched To Identify Swift Population Across Wicklow

The project is being carried out by the County Council and Birdwatch Ireland.

Swifts have recently arrived across Ireland following their migration from southern Africa. 

Slightly larger than a swallow, they are renowned for returning to the same buildings in towns and villages to nest and raise young. 

Swifts are increasingly threatened through loss of nest sites and have suffered an alarming 40 per cent population decline in the past decade. 

It is hoped that with the participation of individuals, schools and Tidy Towns groups, a more definitive list can be established to give a clearer picture of the Swift population here in Wicklow.