Protect swifts petition - Protect the Wild

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Urgent action needed to protect a long-established swift nest

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Dear Justin,

I am writing to raise ongoing concerns regarding the obstruction of a long-established swift nesting site at the Pound Road swift colony in Banstead.

While it is welcomed that the flue pipe previously blocking the nest entrance has now reportedly been repositioned, the scaffolding surrounding the site remains in place and concerns continue that swifts are still struggling to safely access the nest.

Local volunteers from Banstead Swifts have reported witnessing swifts repeatedly colliding with poles, planks and surrounding structures while attempting to enter the nest site. One bird reportedly disappeared after a collision, raising fears that harm may already have occurred.

Swifts are a legally protected and rapidly declining species in the UK. The loss and obstruction of nesting sites is recognised as one of the primary causes of their decline. These birds return from Africa every year to the exact same nesting locations, relying on continued safe access during the breeding season.

Given the protected status of nesting swifts under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, we respectfully urge Raven Housing Trust to now take the final step and remove the scaffolding as quickly as possible so this situation can be fully resolved and the nesting site properly protected.

This appears to be an entirely avoidable situation and one that could still be resolved swiftly and positively with immediate action.

We hope Raven Housing Trust will demonstrate a clear commitment to biodiversity, wildlife protection, and ecological responsibility by ensuring no further risk is posed to these birds during the breeding season.

Please support efforts to fully rectify the situation for the benefit of the swifts and the wider local environment.

For further information regarding the colony and the concerns raised, please contact:
bansteadswifts@gmail.com

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response and to a positive resolution for this important nesting site.

Kind regards,

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Urgent action needed to protect a long-established swift nest

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