Share to ClassroomStudy: Swifts Reuse Same Nests
A new study shows that swifts are very loyal to their nests. Swifts are small birds that visit Britain in summer. Scientists studied 190 swifts at 243 nests in Devon, England. They found that 94% of the birds return to the same nest each year.
The swift is one of Britain's most at-risk birds. Its numbers have dropped by about 70% since 1995. Many nests are lost when people fix old roofs. Bird groups want builders to add cheap "swift bricks" to new homes. These bricks cost about £35. Scotland requires them by law, but England does not.
A scientist says the study shows why nests must be saved. The study comes out before UK Swift Awareness Week. More than 150 local groups hold events to help the birds. Groups also fear that hot weather could kill young swifts.
