Supporting Swifts in Walkern

As part of the Wilder Walkern project, we are looking to take action to support Swifts and House Martins in the village. The Hertford Swift Group has kindly offered to give a presentation, and if, following the meeting, enough people are interested, they will then offer to supply and install Swift boxes for those who wish to take part. They can also advise on supporting House Martins with artificial nest cups.

If you would like to attend a meeting about this, please let us know as soon as possible by emailing info@wilderwalkern.org.uk. If we receive sufficient interest, we will arrange a meeting in the village.

UPDATE: this meeting has now been arranged for 5th May, details here.

Why Swifts Need Our Help

The Common Swift has declined in the UK by over 62% (more than one million birds) in the last 30 years and was added to the Red List in 2021. Swifts have evolved over thousands of years to nest in the eaves and walls of buildings, but opportunities have fallen sharply due to the loss or modernisation of older structures.

Providing nest sites—such as Swift boxes and Swift bricks—is a proven way to help restore numbers. This action is needed quickly and at scale to support remaining colonies. It also benefits other urban wildlife, including the House Sparrow (also red‑listed), various Tit species, and Bumblebees.

Walkern still has Swifts, and the Hertford Swift Group hopes to boost their numbers by installing Swift boxes locally.

Swift Boxes and Installation

• Approximate cost: £35, including installation (price may vary depending on the number of orders)
• Boxes are usually installed 5 metres or more above ground, so professional installation is recommended
• The Hertford Swift Group has installed over 1,600 Swift boxes across Hertford and the wider county, working with schools, churches, community groups and residents

Supporting House Martins

The Group can also help support another red‑listed species—the House Martin, which is still present in Walkern—by installing artificial nest cups close to existing nest sites (also around £35).

If you’re interested in attending a meeting or finding out more, please contact info@wilderwalkern.org.uk. We hope to hear from you soon.