High Weald Swifts

High Weald Swifts is a registered charity working to conserve common swifts in Goudhurst, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells and surrounding villages in the High Weald. The group began its work in February 2020 and became a charity in 2023. Its aim is to halt and reverse the decline of swifts by building understanding of their numbers and distribution, protecting established nesting sites and colonies, and creating new places for the birds to nest.

The group’s activities include surveying local swift populations and identifying nesting sites, supporting the protection and expansion of colonies, and encouraging residents, families and schools to install swift nest boxes. It also helps provide nest boxes to people who may not otherwise be able to afford them; a donation of £30 can fund one for a family or school. Supporters can volunteer for evening surveys, donate by card, or contribute with Gift Aid. High Weald Swifts also shares information about swift conservation, nest boxes and the birds’ remarkable migration to Africa, and offers a newsletter with news and updates.