Swift action by school to help birds

A TALLAGHT primary school has taken swift action to help restore the population of a species of bird, which is of conservation concern in Ireland, reports Mary Dennehy.

Every year, swifts leave Africa for Ireland, arriving here in late April/early May to breed, and staying until August or September.

According to Swift Conservation Ireland, these little black and white birds are faithful to their nest sites and once they have found a place to nest, will return to it every year for the rest of their lives.

However, fewer and fewer swifts are making the journey to Ireland – with the Irish swift population decreasing by 40 per cent since 2007.

Extreme weather events and a decline in the insect population are believed to be impacting numbers, but one of the most important factors is loss of habitat as old buildings are renovated and crooks and crannies sealed up for a cosier, airtight home or office.

There are ways however, in which we can help create homes for swifts and St Mark’s Junior National School in Tallaght is leading the way locally when it comes to providing a helping hand.

Last week, ten specially made swift boxes were installed on the school building, with guidance from Swift Conservation Ireland and Bird Watch Ireland.

A teacher of second class, Sarah O’Brien, is leading the project at St Mark’s and secured sponsorship from Gas Networks Ireland for the initiative.

Last week, while children were on holidays, Murphy Construction and a cherry picker arrived on site to install the ten bird boxes.

There is also a swift calling system attached to one of the boxes to attract swifts, and two cameras so pupils can watch their new neighbours arrive.

“The kids are so excited, they’re looking out for the birds everyday,” Ms O’ Brien said.

“I think we may be the first school in Dublin to install the boxes and I would definitely encourage other schools in the area to get involved.”

She added: “There are small things we can all do that make a big difference.

“We are a green school and are always teaching the kids about bio-diversity and the impact we all have on the environment and the planet.

“[Installing swift boxes] is a very visual and very real way in which we can support biodiversity . . . and make a difference.

It will also enable children to experience nature in action.”

Ms O’Brien said that the school is hopeful that swifts will arrive in the next couple of weeks.

It may start off with one or two families and grow in numbers next year.

If you’d like to learn more, visit the Swift Conservation Ireland website.