Around here, the call of swifts as they scythe through the sky in twos and fours has been one of the iconic sounds of the summer. Every year these migratory birds arrive from Africa at the end of April and return in August. Until a few summers ago, like many other villages, Hurstpierpoint had a thriving swift population. These are astonishing birds, they are the fastest in level flight, beating the peregrine falcon and the quickest hummingbird to reach motorway-style speeds of 69 mph. They can stay entirely airborne for 10 months, eating, sleeping and breeding as they surf the air currents. These venerable creatures live for up to 21 years and partner for life, returning to the same nesting sites every year, and clocking up literally millions of miles in a lifetime. Swifts joined the red list of endangered animals two years ago, and their species is currently in freefall. The ravages of climate change coupled with the fact that farmland offers very little to wild creatures has led to a precipitous decline in insect life, and swifts feed on flying insects. For millenia swifts nested in tall pines, but adapted to roosting in the eaves of old houses and other high buildings. Renovations and plastic fittings mean space for the birds has dwindled to a critical point. This year Hurst Rethink are promoting these birds’ welfare as like everywhere else, local numbers have dropped dramatically. In March, ten audio nesting boxes were installed in Weald Close, where there used to be a healthy population. These are now ready for the end of April, when the birds return from Africa, ready to breed. For our key event, everyone is invited to a free evening dedicated to supporting swift life locally, held at 7pm in The New Inn on June 15th. Swift expert Edward Mayer will give a talk, experts on Sussex bats, pond life and hedgehogs will share how we can increase the range of our local wildlife, and there will also be plant stall and a chance to share experiences and sightings.
