The new swift tower at Crumlin Allotments provides an exciting opportunity for the Common Swift, Antrim and Newtownabbey’s ‘Bird of the Borough’, to establish a new nesting site. Constructed by local company Stoneyford Engineering, the tower features 20 nesting boxes and a caller system designed to attract swifts and encourage them to nest in the area. The initiative builds on recent conservation efforts in Ballyclare and Doagh, where additional swift nesting sites were installed earlier this year.
The Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Henry Cushinan said,
“I am delighted to see the new swift tower installed at Crumlin Allotments. Built by local business Stoneyford Engineering, it reflects the community’s passion for protecting our Bird of the Borough. With recent swift nesting projects in Ballyclare, Doagh and now Crumlin, it is clear there is strong support across the Borough for these remarkable birds.
“Protecting swifts is a shared responsibility, and initiatives like these show what can be achieved when local communities, volunteers, schools and the RSPB Antrim Local Group work together. I was also pleased to attend the swift awareness talk and learn more about the incredible journeys these birds make each year.”
As part of the week’s activities, the RSPB Antrim Local Group delivered an engaging and educational talk, giving local residents a fascinating insight into the world of swifts and the challenges they face. Attendees also had the opportunity to view the swift Bricks installed at Antrim Library and take part in a swift watch, spotting these extraordinary aerial visitors as they soared overhead.
Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council continues to work in partnership with the RSPB Antrim Local Group to support swift conservation efforts and raise awareness of the importance of protecting the species across the Borough.
