No easy summer for swallows in Bavaria - Bavaria's Swallow Population Plummets Due to Weather and Habitat Loss
Swallow populations in Bavaria have faced severe declines due to harsh weather conditions and habitat loss. Last fall's cold and rainy spell in early September 2024 led to thousands of birds dying, with the Ingolstadt area seeing a third of its population disappear. The Landesbund für Vogelschutz in Bayern e.V. (LBV) is working to protect these beneficial birds, which feed on mosquitoes.
Birds, known for their insect-eating habits, are struggling due to multiple factors. Extreme weather conditions, habitat loss, and less available nesting sites are pushing their populations down. Last year's cold and rainy spell in early September was particularly devastating, leading to a significant decline in bird numbers. The 'Vogelfreundlicher Garten' project, a collaboration between the LBV and the Bavarian Species Conservation Center, aims to protect birds, but there's no public information on when a project leader for building protection in Upper Bavaria was appointed.
The sealing of surfaces, a common issue in urban areas, reduces the availability of clay and plants, leading to fewer insects for birds. This spring and summer's fluctuating weather further hindered their recovery. House martins, which depart for Africa about two weeks before barn birds, were also heavily affected. Humans can help by providing artificial nests, building clay sources, or ensuring a short flight path between the nest and clay source. Stables, traditionally good nesting sites, are often excluded from modern new buildings.
Birds, crucial for mosquito control, are facing severe challenges in Bavaria. Last year's cold and rainy spell caused significant population declines, with the Ingolstadt area losing about a third of its birds. While the LBV works to protect these birds, more efforts are needed to mitigate habitat loss and provide suitable nesting sites. Humans can play a role in supporting bird populations by addressing these issues.
