A Swift Rescue with the Help of Our Community

In August, a member of the public kindly brought a grounded swift into our Walnut Tree practice. Swifts are remarkable birds, spending most of their lives on the wing, but if they find themselves grounded, they are unable to take off again without help.

On arrival, our team carried out an initial check and gave the bird some first aid to ensure it was stable. We then contacted the Swift & Swallow SOS group, a nationwide volunteer network dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of swifts and swallows.

Thanks to their ‘swift’ response, arrangements were quickly made for the bird to be collected and transported safely to an experienced member of the Swift & Swallow SOS group, where it will receive the care it needs before being released back into the wild.

This successful rescue was a real team effort – from the caring member of the public who spotted the bird, to our veterinary team, and the dedicated volunteers at Swift SOS.

What to do if you find a grounded swift

If you ever come across a swift in trouble, please do not attempt to release it yourself. Instead:

• Gently place the bird in a ventilated box lined with a towel.
• Do not try to feed or give water.
• Contact the Swift & Swallow SOS group straight away for expert advice and to arrange rescue.

You can find more about their fantastic work by visiting their Facebook group: Swift & Swallow SOS – Coordinating Rescues & Supporting Finders.

Together, with the support of our community and organisations like Swift SOS, we can give these incredible birds the best chance of survival.