Nest boxes make meaningful contribution to wildlife conservation in ancient capital

Manx National Heritage installs infrastructure at new visitor hub

It's hoped four new Swift nest boxes installed on a building in Castletown will provide valuable nesting opportunities for the declining breed.

The project, at One Market Square, Manx National Heritage's new visitor hub, forms part of ongoing efforts to support Swift conservation on the Island.

Almost half of the Isle of Man's breeding population has been lost since the start of the century, 'largely due to the loss of suitable nesting sites in modern and renovated buildings'.

Spending the winter in Africa, the birds arrive in the Isle of Man in early May and remain for only around three months before beginning their return journey from mid-July onwards. 

Manx National Heritage says the installation 'demonstrates how relatively small interventions can make a meaningful contribution to wildlife conservation while preserving and enhancing the built environment'.

Richard Seed, Environmental Development & Engagement Manager for Manx National Heritage said: "One Market Square is a fantastic example of how heritage buildings can continue to serve our communities while also supporting wildlife. 

"By installing these Swift nest boxes, we are helping to provide safe nesting spaces for a species that has experienced significant declines on the Island. 

"We hope this project will encourage others to consider how simple measures can be incorporated into buildings to support biodiversity and help secure a future for Swifts in the Isle of Man."

The nest boxes were supplied by the Manx Bird Club and Curraghs Wildlife Park.