On the 20th April, the Friends welcomed Tim Norris and Catherine Gale from Hampshire Swifts to the unveiling of their latest pop exhibition featuring the nationally important colony of Swifts that arrive every summer in New Milton.
About 80 pairs nest in and around the North Milton Estate and return each year to the same nests. The Swifts, that can live up to 20 years, usually have 2 to 3 chicks. Before they fly back to Africa in the autumn, these chicks will be looking for their own nest to return to next year.
Over the past 30 years, we have lost about 70% of our Swifts as they lose their nesting spots due to houses being renovated and the nesting holes blocked up. The Hampshire Swifts are asking for help. If you are a homeowner with a two storey house or are extending your property, the Hampshire Swifts can fit a box or Swift bricks. Cost for one box installed is £50. More details on their website: https://www.hampshireswifts.co.uk/
Tim Norris and Catharine Gale demonstrated their knowledge and passion for these incredible birds by giving a short talk and answering questions from the people attending the event. The Friends also supplied their usual delicious home made cakes!
The exhibition will be on display in the waiting room until 11th May.
