Home / Environment / Jarrow Renos Spark Swift Nest Outrage
Jarrow Renos Spark Swift Nest Outrage
10 Jul
Summary
- Swiftlet found in damaged nest is stabilising at wildlife rescue.
- Nest debris was discovered in a skip used by contractors.
- South Tyneside council is investigating the incident immediately.
Conservationists are deeply concerned following suspected destruction of swift nests during housing renovations in Jarrow. A swiftlet, found in a damaged nest, has been taken to a wildlife rescue and is reportedly stabilising. Nest debris was observed in a skip belonging to the contractors working on behalf of South Tyneside council.
Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, it is illegal to disturb active wild bird nests. Experts believe multiple nests may have been affected, as swifts typically nest in colonies. This incident highlights the ongoing decline of swift populations in the UK, which have decreased by approximately 70% since 1995.
South Tyneside council has suspended further renovation works and initiated an investigation, requesting a full report from the contractor. The council stated that ecological surveys are typically conducted before work begins, with contractors receiving guidance on handling nests. Despite this, concerns remain about effective wildlife protection during construction projects.
The incident echoes similar past events where nesting sites were destroyed. In May, the government declined to mandate 'swift bricks' in new homes in England, a measure already compulsory in Scotland, which allows swifts to nest without damaging building structures.
