UK swifts face a 66% breeding decline; Northern Ireland pushes nesting boxes to help.

Swifts in the UK have seen a 66% drop in breeding pairs over 30 years, prompting preservation efforts. In Ballyclare, Northern Ireland, residents are encouraged to host nesting boxes to help the "Bird of the Borough." The decline is linked to modern building practices that limit nesting sites. County Mayo saw a 23% increase in swifts after requiring swift-friendly bricks in new buildings.