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Take a look, through some of the common species of wildlife that live in the South Yorkshire area around Sheffield and Rotherham.
A recently extended patch of heathland and woodland, neighbouring Wyming Brook.
Help stop the badger cull coming to Sheffield and Rotherham!
Unveil the hidden world of insects in Sheffield & Rotherham with the newest issue of Kingfisher magazine.
In 2023 we named Sheffield a ‘Swift City’ – a declaration of ambition from the people of Sheffield to protect our swifts and work together for their conservation across the city. Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust is working at the heart of this endeavour, supporting the work of the Sheffield Swift Network – a collaboration of local groups dedicated to taking action for swifts in their communities.
Swifts are true aerial acrobats of the bird world, but they are facing a grave threat. Their numbers have been dwindling due to habitat loss, modern construction practices, and the scarcity of nesting sites. These tireless travellers migrate to the UK from Africa in early May for around three months of the year to breed before returning again. They spend almost all of their lives on the wing, but when they need nesting sites in our houses and buildings, they are finding it increasingly difficult to find safe havens to breed and raise their young. Action is needed to protect these incredible birds and ensure their survival.
Conservation status: Classified in the UK as Red Listed
To address the decline in swift populations the Sheffield Swift Network, supported by Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust, has initiated a range of monitoring and conservation efforts. One of the key strategies is the installation of swift boxes and bricks, specially designed nesting sites that mimic the nooks and crannies of traditional buildings. By incorporating these nesting opportunities into our urban landscape, we can help our swifts to rebuild their populations.
Central to Sheffield being a Swift City is the collective effort of dedicated volunteers who form the Sheffield Swift Network. These passionate individuals and groups work tirelessly to protect swifts and are helping to increase habitats across the city. Through monitoring nest sites, raising awareness, and engaging the community, they are creating a thriving network of support for swifts.