Wicklow County Council is inviting members of the public to discover one of our most remarkable summer visitors, the Swift, through two guided Walk & Talk events delivered by Oran O’Sullivan taking place this May and June, on the following dates:

• Thursday 21st May | 6.45pm –7.45pm | Arklow Library
• Wednesday 10th June | 6.30pm –7.30pm | Rathdrum Library

Each event will include a guided walk (weather permitting) to observe Swifts in the local area as well as a talk. Both events are free and open to the public. Children must be accompanied by an adult, and appropriate footwear and clothing are advised.

Swifts are among the most extraordinary birds in the world. They spend almost their entire lives in the air, feeding, drinking and even sleeping on the wing, and travel thousands of kilometres each year between Ireland and Africa. Each summer, they return to the same buildings in our towns and villages, often to the exact same nesting site year after year.

Following on from the successful 2019 survey, which identified over 100 nest sites across the county, work is now underway to update our understanding of Swift populations in Wicklow. This will help inform ongoing efforts to support and conserve the species at a local level.

Despite their remarkable life in flight, Swifts are increasingly under pressure. The species is now on the Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland, with populations declining by over 40% in the past 25 years. A key issue is the loss of nesting sites, as older buildings are renovated and modern construction methods reduce the small gaps and cavities that Swifts depend on.

This summer’s programme focuses on raising awareness of Swifts in Wicklow, giving people an opportunity to see them up close, learn about their behaviour, and better understand their place in our towns and communities.

Commenting on the upcoming events, Cathaoirleach of Wicklow County Council Cllr. Melanie Corrigan commented, “Swifts are one of the real signs of summer, with their fast, acrobatic flights over our towns on warm evenings. Once you know what to look for, you start to notice them everywhere. I would encourage people to come along to these events, learn more about them, and enjoy this unique part of our local wildlife.”

Dr. Hannah O’Kelly, Biodiversity Officer, Wicklow County Council, said, “Swifts are a fascinating species, and many people are surprised to learn just how unique they are. These events are a great opportunity to connect with nature locally and to build awareness of how we can support biodiversity in our towns and villages.”