Five swifts were in the skies of
Glynarthen yesterday. Ian’s correct in assuming that they nest in the Chapel but
that they were very late in arriving this year. The first ones appeared in mid
May but were seen only intermittently. The last week has seen them flying around
more reliably and consistently.
When we had the house built in
Glynarthen a couple of years ago, we had five swift boxes built high up into the
wall of the pine end of the house. We’ve been playing swift sounds through the
summer months for the last couple of years but haven’t had any marked success.
This year, the swifts have been paying more close attention to the vicinity of
the boxes, particularly in the last couple of weeks, though not yet venturing
inside. House sparrows are currently occupying three of the boxes though,
apparently, the swifts will likely prevail if they do intend taking up residence
themselves.
Apparently, it can take many seasons
before swifts might actually occupy the boxes. We’re prepared for the long haul,
however, and are determined that we’ll give them every
chance.
Roger
Watkins
Apologies for the late posting of the above, which was sent to John last Wednesday. John passed it to me as soon as he got back from his trip, but for some unknown reason the email has only just reached me.