Hoping for a Swift release

Amongst the orphan birds brought into Stapeley, Swifts are one of the more challenging to raise. Whilst admitting one I could not help but look at it in awe.  They spend most of their life in the air carrying out all of the usual activities of feeding, mating and even sleeping - pretty amazing!

Always on the go Swifts only land to nest and raise their offspring.

Unlike other birds Swifts can only feed while flying because their soft beaks are unable to pick up live food. It is therefore necessary to regularly force feed their diet of wax worm larvae, crickets and flies which is very time consuming to prepare, especially with the substantial amount they seem to get through!

They have extremely delicate, extra long and extra thin wings which have to be in tip top condition in order to support their lifestyle in the sky.  So while looking after the orphans, exceptional care is taken to prevent any feather damage which could delay their release.

     

To add to the pressure they must be ready and released before the end of the summer so they can migrate to South Africa along with other Swifts. Hopefully it will not be long before the orphaned Swifts at Stapeley can be taken to a field where they will have the space to gain the height to start their life in the sky.

By Michelle Bite

Sponsors of Stapeley Grange Wildlife Centre and Cattery

 To donate to Stapeley text and our orphans: STAP70 £2 or £5 to 70070