Swift populations have dropped by three-quarters since 1995, raising alarms and prompting Monmouthshire County Council to urge action.

Catrin Maby, who serves as the cabinet member responsible for climate change and environmental matters at MCC, expressed concern about the situation. She noted that swifts represent one of Monmouthshire’s characteristic wildlife species. She encouraged everyone to take whatever steps they can to safeguard these birds and support their breeding in local areas, suggesting this could help halt the downward trend in numbers. She expressed hope that residents would work toward making Monmouthshire as welcoming as possible for swifts.

These distinctive flying creatures, recognisable by their curved, boomerang-like silhouette when airborne, travel to Britain from central Africa but depend on man-made structures for their nests.

The council is advising local people to document swifts spotted nearby, refrain from sealing up access points, fix swift nest boxes onto walls that face north, and cultivate gardens that benefit pollinators.

Guidance on how to help swifts has been made available by the council in a leaflet.

Reports of sightings can be sent to localnature@monmouthshire.gov.uk to assist in developing a more comprehensive understanding of swift numbers throughout the county.