Swift survey

[Cetti]

The Moth Count is this weekend (see post below) but the RSPB are also conducting a Swift survey for the summer. This lovely bird is declining fast due to our modern houses ( no nice eaves for nesting) and it would be so sad if we never heard the 'screaming parties' flying round our houses again. There are none where we live now - and I do so miss them. If anyone is interested here is the link: http://www.rspb.org.uk/thingstodo/surveys/swif ts/index.asp

[burnhal]

Thanks for that Cetti- we have loads of swifts round here in Luton. Probably about 20 circling round at the moment. Had an interesting incident with one three weeks ago. I warden at weekends on a reserve near Oxford. Was on a days dragonfly training- first dragonfly of the day- probably a ruddy darter..I say probably as it didnt last long... took of under my nose. There was an audible smack as a swift took it at high speed about four feet from my nose! One of those little memories that will stay! Oh- and I continually here your namesakes on the reserve year round!

[Cetti]

What a lovely story burnhal. Only tiny birds but at high speed you might have seen a few stars on contact!
Did you ever see that picture I posted of the swift that my son found in the road, luckily we were able to see him join his brothers and sisters in the sky, but it was touch and go.
Do you know Radipole.... that's where I see the Cetti's. Must go soon - I need my fix ;-)