Borough bird scheme takes off

Primary pupils in Portglenone got involved in making bird feeders as part of the Council's summer project aimed at raising the profile of the Swift. (submitted pictures)..

It comes after a survey carried out last year found populations across the borough including Ballymena, Cullybackey, Ahoghill, Portglenone and Kells. This year, staff have been engaging schools and community groups through Swift walks, talks and box building workshops.

The Swift is a migrant bird that returns from their wintering grounds in Africa to the same spot in Northern Ireland each year to breed.

Mid and East Antrim Council is committed to protecting and enhancing the region for biodiversity, and encouraging local people to get involved in biodiversity initiatives.

Pupils of Four Towns Primary in Ahoghill taking part in a box building workshop as part of the Council's summer project aimed at raising the profile of the Swift. (submitted pictures)..

Rachel Graham, from Fourtowns Primary School, said: “The primary four and five classes loved learning about Swifts and finding out how we can help protect them in our local environment. Building special boxes was a great treat for the class and we look forward to a Swift family moving in.”