A wildlife charity helping swifts nest in Enfield and Barnet has received a generous donation

Volunteers at Enfield Men’s Shed have been swift to take action for endangered birds.

Each summer, swifts migrate from Africa to breed in the UK, but their numbers have dwindled in recent years because the types of buildings they like to nest in – generally older homes and barns with pitched roofs and eaves – have become less common.

To address this Barnet and Enfield Swifts, a voluntary group established to help increase swift numbers in the two boroughs, recently approached the Enfield Men’s Shed group to ask for their help with making swift boxes, which are specifically designed as ideal nesting locations.

Enfield Men’s Shed organiser Steve told Helen Shore from the swifts group: “You get the wood and we will make some boxes for you!”

Helen approached timber supplies firm Lawsons in Whetstone and spoke to the manager, who kindly said he would be happy to supply several sheets of external ply wood and deliver to the volunteers.

In swift time, Helen said she was delighted to collect “twelve beautifully made swift boxes and nest cups” to help breeding swifts in Barnet and Enfield. They will be installed shortly in areas where swifts are already nesting, as they like to nest in colonies.

Enfield Men’s Shed offers group activities alongside an opportunity to meet new friends and learn creative skills. They meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 10.30am until 1.30pm at John Jackson Library, Agricola Place, Bush Hill Park.

For more information on Barnet and Enfield Swifts and how to help them:
Email [email protected]

For more information about Enfield Men’s Shed:
Call 0208 375 4120
Email [email protected]

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