I’m going to declare it officially summer. Why? I know the first test has started, but surely it’s too cold? Well, it is still a bit cold (just ask the West Indians wearing several jumpers at Lord’s), but swifts are back! So, in my mind, it must be summer.
Although, judging by the comments of my colleagues in London, they might not have them screaming above Old Father Time just yet. But they’re back here, and it’s great! For me, it always heralds the start of summer when I hear that distinctive high pitched scream. It’s time to dig out the flip flops and head to the beach. Well, almost.
They’re just a dull brown bird though, aren’t they? Well, yes. But they’re much more interesting than that! Swifts deserve a bit of a closer look I think. Which is quite difficult considering they spend the vast majority of their life airborne. Bigger than a swallow, or either of the martins, they’re the perfect shape for an aerial life, although they are a scythe shape, I’ve heard them described as the ‘coat hanger’ bird! Any bird that can spend three years (yes three years!) without landing is a star in my book. Everything is conducted in mid-air, literally everything. It’s great to see them back. Next time you're in town, or in the beer garden, take a look up, they'll probably be there somewhere.
But they’re in trouble. They like to nest under the eaves of roofs and in other crevices, so you can help out! Check out our Homes for Wildlife project for tips on how help swifts and other birds and wildlife. Who knows, you may get them nesting under your eaves soon.
I associate them with hot and lazy summer nights, but they’re more of an African bird than British. They won’t be here for long, it’s often said they’re the last to arrive and first to leave. They’ll be gone by the end of August. So this summer try and take a look at these wonderful birds as they scream above your head and make the most of their swift British summer!
For more on our science, check out the RSPB Centre for Conservation Science web pages.