Baby swifts hatch at Mayo arts centre

THE Linenhall Arts Centre has issued a very special update on its longstanding swift nesting project in conjunction with Swift Conservation Mayo - the arrival of twin baby swifts in nest boxes located on the exterior wall of the historic building.

Over the past 15 years, the number of swifts in the west of Ireland declined by over 40%, due to the loss of nest sites associated with demolition or renovation of buildings. Therefore, this swift initiative with the Linenhall and ATU Mayo campus makes a very important contribution to helping numbers increase.

Two monitors livestreaming the swifts are nestled among beautiful art works in the arts centre foyer, so the general public can pop in anytime between May and September to view the birds activity for free.

This awareness project on the red-listed bird of conservation concern, the swift, is generously supported by Councillor Al McDonnell through the Castlebar Municipal GMA funding allocation.

He commented: “Delighted to support the red listed bird swift project, which offers a unique opportunity for the general public to observe the behaviour of the swift during nesting season. Compliments to Lynda Huxley of Swift Conservation Mayo and the splendid technical and supporting team in the Linenhall.”

Swifts, or Gabhlan Gaoithe as Gaeilge, live for over 14 years and pair for life, nesting in old buildings. When they find a nest site, they return to that exact same place year after year.

If that nest site is no longer available, it can take a long time to find a new one, which thankfully some have, on the walls of the Linenhall.

Swifts come to Ireland from central and southern Africa to breed, arriving in May and leaving in August.