We seem to have many fewer swifts in Brigg than we used to.
The other Saturday evening a few of the birds could be seen high up in the air above Central Square.
And, on Wednesday, about 8pm, one or two could be viewed from the Nelthorpe Arms beer garden, alongside the Old River Ancholme.
But nowhere near the numbers I remember, as a boy, growing up in the town, when the eaves of the council houses in Central Square and East Parade provided nesting sites for lots of swooping swifts.
Perhaps improvements to the houses have made things more difficult for the birds.
Anyone got any thoughts on the subject?
Please email nigel.fisher@gsmg.co.uk
The web reports declines in traditional bird population - - with latest 'at risk' being the Blackbird
ReplyDeleteWe provide regular and the birds reward us with visits in large numbers in our garden.
The sparrows hide in the ivy - but SWIFTS feed on the wing passing through but not a nest in sight.
I too remember the hay days of Swifts and Swallows
The world changes - our perspective is but a snap shot.
I too remember squadrons of swallows patrolling the skies around Central Square in th 70's and 80's .
ReplyDeleteThe old story of Clem Trafford fielding at slip in a cricket match for Brigg Sugar Factory and diving full length to catch a swift in mid air is , however, slightly less reliable. !!