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Swift action

Our efforts to support this familiar, yet endangered species as it returns to our skies

Welcome!

A warm welcome to our Summer/ Autumn edition! As I write this, the air is alive with the hum of insects and the chorus of fledglings taking their first flights. It’s a truly magical time of year, and one that reminds us just how precious and vibrant our natural world is.

Here at RSPB NI, we’ve been as busy as our feathered friends, working across the country to enhance the landscapes that make Northern Ireland so special. We look forward to sharing our results at the end of the year.

This edition focuses on some incredible work that our local supporters are doing for nature, from the NI Youth Network to celebrating the LIFE Raft Volunteer team’s success at the RSPB’s President Awards. It’s wonderful to see our communities band together to protect nature, from digging nettles for Corncrakes to putting up nest boxes for Swifts.

Whether you’re exploring our nature reserves, tending to your own garden wildlife or simply enjoying the long, sunny days, we hope this magazine inspires you to connect with nature and play your part in its conservation. Let’s make this summer a season of discovery and positive change for Northern Ireland’s wildlife.

Joanne Sherwood Director, RSPB NI

Action for nature

Our people Woody returns

Rathlin Island nature reserve is known as a haven for seabirds, but for years invasive species such as ferrets and rats have threatened its delicate ecosystem. Enter Woody, a four-legged hero with an exceptional nose, working tirelessly to protect this island’s native species.

Woody (pictured), a two-year-old Fox Red Labrador, is no ordinary dog. He’s a highly trained conservation detection dog, and a vital member of the RSPB NI’s LIFE Raft project. His mission? To sniff out any remaining ferrets, and now Brown Rats as well, that have posed a significant threat to the island’s internationally important seabird populations, including Puffins and Guillemots.

Woody has been described as a ‘moving trail camera with a nose’. His keen sense of smell helps the LIFE Raft team to find any signs of ferrets or rats on the island. Once he’s found something of interest, Woody sits to alert his handler, and they begin setting up monitoring of the area.

This dedicated detective isn’t just relying on his natural talent. Woody keeps his skills sharp with regular training sessions. You might find him indoors, diligently working on scent trails, or outdoors, where the training

gets even more exciting as he navigates various terrains, learning to identify the specific smells he’s been taught to find in different environments. His reward for a successful ‘find’? A fun game of fetch with his beloved ball.

If you happen to spot a flash of red fur and a wagging tail during your visit to Rathlin this summer, it’s likely Woody, eagerly assisting RSPB NI in their vital mission to protect the island’s precious seabirds.

Our people

Giving nature a sporting chance

The Sporting Nature Project within Ulster Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) has recruited a new biodiversity advisor, who will work between RSPB NI and NI Water to enhance biodiversity across GAA clubs. The position has been filled by a familiar face, previous RSPB NI Visitor Experience Manager, Tim McCann (pictured with volunteer Siobhan).

Tim will provide guidance on creating habitats across GAA sites and promoting sustainable practices. He’ll work to drive behavioural change, train club leaders and foster a culture of environmental stewardship in the community.

The initiative is funded by the National Lottery Community Fund and seeks to create lasting positive impacts on the natural environment.

Our people

Celebrating the hard work of volunteers

Cheers of celebration echoed across Rathlin Island nature reserve as the dedicated LIFE Raft Volunteers, the driving force behind the project, were announced as the winners of this year’s RSPB’s President’s Award for Best Volunteering Team. This prestigious recognition is a testament to their unwavering commitment and tireless work in safeguarding the island’s precious seabird population.

From carrying out dawn patrols to meticulous monitoring, the volunteers have poured their hearts and souls into the LIFE Raft project. Their collaborative spirit, dedication and innovative approaches to tackling invasive species have made a tangible difference in creating a safer haven for Rathlin’s wildlife.

This award is a symbol of the collective effort and passion that fuels the team. It acknowledges the countless hours spent battling harsh weather, navigating challenging terrain and their determination to see the mission through. All of us at RSPB NI express our thanks and gratitude to an incredible team working to save nature.

Supporting Swifts

The RSPB Antrim Local Group have been expanding their Swift conservation efforts to Ballyclare!

Following their previous success with the Aviva crowdfunding campaign, which enabled the group to install 15 new nest sites at Parkgate, they have been working with the community in Ballyclare to

support their already established Swift population.

The work so far has included a collaboration with Choice Housing to install Swift bricks in new developments and hosting a successful information event at the town hall, which saw an incredible 30 new applications for nest boxes from the local community.

The event was attended by Mayor of Newtownabbey and Antrim, Councillor Neil Kelly, and supported by guest speaker Daniel McAfee, who shared insights into Swift behaviour and the challenges they face.

If you’d like to get involved, join the Antrim Local Group at their next meeting: group.rspb.org.uk/antrim

Nature notes

Michael Scullion, Peatland Project Manager

As the new Peatland Project Manager for RSPB NI, I’m delighted to be working on a project that holds such a special place in my heart. Growing up at the foot of the Antrim Hills, I have a deep connection to these unique landscapes. It’s a privilege to contribute to their restoration for future generations. With a family history rooted in this land, I’m particularly enthusiastic about collaborating with the local community to bring nature back to these vital habitats.

Species Success of Corncrake return

The familiar and evocative ‘crex-crex’ of the Corncrake has once again echoed across Rathlin Island this summer, with six of these elusive birds heard calling.

This ongoing success story is a result of the unwavering dedication of the Giving Corncrake a Home Project, led by Anne Guichard and supported by an incredible team of volunteers. Their tireless work includes diligently digging and cleaning nettles, transporting them from the mainland to Rathlin in time for the breeding season, creating a welcoming habitat for these special birds.

This collective effort with volunteers, farms and landowners demonstrates the power of community spirit and

the vital role that volunteers play in protecting our precious wildlife.

If you’d like to be part of this inspiring effort this year, whether by lending a hand as a volunteer or by offering nettles from your land, please get in touch with Anne Guichard at Anne.Guichard@rspb.org.uk

Passion for peatland

Thanks to the Shared Island Fund, the second phase of our Peatland Programme for peatland restoration is now under way, marking a significant step forward in environmental conservation efforts for upland in the Antrim Hills. This new initiative is led by Michael Scullion, the newly appointed Peatland Project Manager (see page 3), who will work under Martin Clift, Peatland Programme Manager. Living in the area from childhood helped Michael develop a profound

understanding of the landscape’s significance, in an area historically shaped by peat cutting.

With the support of his newly appointed team, Michael is dedicated to helping restore and support upland bog restoration. They’re specifically focused on the vital process of rewetting peatlands and encouraging connection with the community to help create a lasting environmental legacy for future generations.

Star species Swift

A plain, sooty brown, with a white throat, but in flight they appear black. They have curved wings and a forked tail. Swifts fly high as they search for small invertebrates to eat and to feed to their chicks, though nesting Swifts zoom around buildings at roof level. They migrate to the UK from Africa each year, arriving in late April and May, and only spend a few months with us while they raise their chicks before eventually returning to Africa in early August. Their screaming call is one of the most evocative sounds of summer. But in some places, their calls have fallen silent with Swifts on the Red List of conservation concern.

Conservation Nature in mind for school

RSPB NI have teamed up with Down High School to form a ‘constructive collaboration’.

Sixth form pupils are working together to help protect nature as part of the school’s development project. The pupils proposed wildlife-friendly measures, working with Graham Construction to suggest new ways of helping some of our most threatened wildlife species. This included adding Swift nesting bricks into the building’s structure, along with a new Swift calling system. Working alongside S M Cuffey Landscape contractors, the students have been busy creating a new hub for wildlife and their next project will be to create a bog garden and install nest boxes for House Sparrows. The project has empowered the students to make a real difference for wildlife in their own school grounds.

Left: The Peatland Project Team

Right: Left to right, Ollie Tourney, Year 14 Down High; Michael McMullan, RSPB NI; Rosie Barnett, Graham Sustainability Manager

Scientific name Apus apus

Wingspan 42–48cm

Length 16–17cm

Where to see Urban and Suburban Conservation status Red List

Allison

Leonard,

Managing Director Manx BirdLife

A home for Sand Martins

At the start of the year, a dedicated team of staff, volunteers and contractors came together to create a wonderful new feature to the Manx Birdlife Point of Ayre National Reserve – an artificial Sand Martin bank (pictured). This new addition is designed to mimic the natural sand banks that the species are fond of.

More than just a mound of sand, the new sand bank is a meticulously designed burrow system made up of four ‘cabinets’ that replicate the natural sandbanks that Sand Martins prefer, complete with sand-filled nesting chambers that will allow the birds to make their own burrows.

A real example of collaboration, this was all made possible through funding from the Co-op’s Community Fund. The Sand Martin bank was designed and built by

Green Future Building, with Island Aggregates providing the sand for the burrows. Together, staff, volunteers and the team at Island Contracts constructed a wonderful space that will benefit both the species and the local community for years to come.

Let’s hope the Sand Martins are as excited about their new home as we are!

Your questions

I’ve noticed young birds in my garden recently. Is it normal that they can’t fly, and is there anything I can do to help?

Nathan, East Belfast

July is a busy time for young birds, with many species fledging, meaning they’re feathered and leaving the nest but still reliant on parents for food and care. If a fledgling looks healthy and can hop, it’s likely being looked after. Avoid interfering unless the bird is injured or in immediate danger. To help, ensure your garden is a safe environment with plenty of cover and a source of fresh water.

My nine-year-old daughter is interested in nature. Are there any RSPB groups she can join to help her learn more?

Fiona, Magherafelt

It’s amazing that she’s found a love for nature. We’d really encourage anyone who wants to expand their knowledge or find like-minded people to join one of our Local Groups. Ages vary from as young as eight to eighty! Find more information about RSPB Local Groups on our website. Joining a group is a fantastic way for your child to nurture their interest in nature, learn more about the natural world and have fun doing it!

I’ve been hearing bats flying around my house in the evenings. Is July a common time for bats to be active?

Jim, Greyabbey

Yes, July is a prime time for bats! It’s highly likely they are raising young – around dusk they emerge from their roosts to hunt insects. Their flight might appear more erratic, especially if you’re seeing younger bats taking their first flights. All bat species in the UK are protected by law, so it’s important to avoid disturbing their roosts.

Female House Sparrow

Youth network leads the way

More than a group, this newly formed organisation is giving a voice to young people who are passionate about protecting nature in Northern Ireland

Launched at the start of 2025, the RSPB NI Youth Network is an active movement, empowering young people to make a change. It’s made up of a collective of dedicated individuals aged 18–24 who share a passion for nature and conservation.

The network aims to foster a deep connection with nature, through engaging workshops, immersive field trips and hands-on conservation projects. Members gain valuable knowledge and practical skills, with the opportunity to join in with bird identification trips, visit all the NI reserves and take part in conservation work across various sites.

However, the Youth Network isn’t confined to just practical conservation; it’s a platform for advocacy and leadership. Members are encouraged to voice their concerns about environmental issues, engaging with policymakers through the ‘five-minute monthly volunteer challenge’ which could be anything from signing and supporting an e-action to writing a letter to their local MLA about nature concerns.

So far this year they’ve attended workshops on how to draft letters to local councils, how to participate in public consultations and been given an opportunity to organise their own awareness campaigns. Our hope is that together, this inspiring youth network will continue to voice their passion to shape the future of environmental policy and influence decisions.

The Network also prioritises personal development and community building to help members gain confidence, build lasting friendships and develop essential life skills. The supportive environment encourages collaboration, empowering young people to take initiative and lead projects. This sense of belonging and shared purpose is crucial in fostering a generation of confident and capable environmental stewards.

Rhys’ journey

At the heart of the Youth Network is Rhys, a dedicated member whose passion for conservation and advocacy is as vibrant as the wildlife he strives to protect. He’s shared his personal journey, from his involvement with RSPB to his hopes for the future, and the driving force behind his commitment to safeguard Northern Ireland’s natural heritage for years to come.

“As the RSPB Youth Council Representative since March 2024, it was a natural fit for me to become a

30+

120+ members placements in RSPB views on Monthly Youth Network Newsletter Youth Network in numbers

Left: Members of the RSPB’s Youth Council taking part in a Big Garden Birdwatch activity

‘The RSPB NI Youth Network is a way for young people to engage with nature, who would traditionally have no role in the environmental sector’

Photos:

Louise Pepper; Christopher Curran; Brian Morrison; Leia Geisel

member of the RSPB NI’s Youth Network. My experience enabled me to help steer the development of the group before it launched, and I’m excited for the possibilities it’ll bring to all the members.

“The RSPB NI Youth Network provides a way to increase environmental engagement from young people that would traditionally be marginalised from the environmental sector. It grants them access to volunteering, grants, internships and even just a safe space to discuss common environmental interests.

“My ambition is to work within the conservation sector, and the Youth Network is a step towards achieving that. Having been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), I struggled with the interview aspect in the job search. However, the Youth Network offers mock interviews that helped me overcome those fears, and has supported me to help me reach my goals.

“My advice for any environmentally minded young person looking to get involved in the conservation space is to start by volunteering. It opens so many doors in the sector, giving valuable experience and connections. Personally, volunteering led to my place within the Youth Council and has given me experience I would not have otherwise had. This is where the Youth

Network will be invaluable – it provides opportunities not just within RSPB NI but across the entire sector.

So, whether it’s a work day at Montiaghs Moss, or a visit to Rathlin Island, there’s something for everyone.”

The RSPB NI Youth Network is more than just a group; it’s a catalyst for change. By equipping young people with tools, knowledge and confidence to advocate for nature. Rhys’ story, and those of his peers, illustrate the transformative power of this initiative.

Get involved...

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Please scan the code if you’d like to learn more about the impact of the RSPB NI’s Youth Network on its members, read more from Rhys and other members and find out how to get involved.

To join the Youth Network in NI please visit bit.ly/RSPBNI_YouthNetwork

Seasonal highlights

There’s exciting wildlife activity at our nature reserves. For more events, including up-to-date information and new listings, head to events.rspb.org.uk/northernireland

The ‘jumpling’ spectacle on Rathlin Island is an unforgettable highlight

This unique moment showcases the incredible resilience of nature as young Razorbill and Guillemot chicks (pictured) take their first, daring leap from the towering cliffs in late July. These fluffy ‘jumplings’ leave their nests before they can even fly, embarking on a remarkable journey into the unknown.

Watch in awe as the male parent bird calls from the water below, encouraging its chick to take the plunge. Recognising its father’s familiar ‘whirring’ call, the brave little chick leaps from the daunting precipice, before spending the next few weeks at sea learning to survive.

RSPB Northern Ireland Headquarters

Belvoir Park Forest, Belfast BT8 7QT 028 9049 1547 rspb.nireland@rspb.org.uk

facebook.com/RSPBNI twitter.com/RSPBNI @rspb_ni

Nature’s symphony: capturing summer at Portmore Lough

Capture the thrilling sights and sounds of summer at Portmore Lough Nature Reserve, where you’ll see butterflies and dragonflies darting along the path to the hide, and Ragged-robin and loosestrifes adorn the meadows. Listen for the raucous noise of the Common Tern colony which can be heard from the lough, as the Terns are busy raising their young on the nesting rafts. You can enjoy panoramic views of the lough from the viewing platform or lakeside hide, which is accessible via an all-weather boardwalk. The wildlife garden offers a chance to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature all-year long.

Local Groups

Antrim

Brenda Campbell, 028 9332 3657 group.rspb.org.uk/antrim

Belfast

Eleanor Brennan, group.rspb.org.uk/belfast

Coleraine

James McDowell, 07596 503 435 group.rspb.org.uk/coleraine

Fermanagh

Rosalind McConkey, 028 6632 0794 group.rspb.org.uk/fermanagh

Lisburn

Ian Raine, group.rspb.org.uk/lisburn

Summer sights at RSPB Belfast’s Window on Wildlife

This July and August, don’t miss the vibrant life at RSPB NI Window on Wildlife! Witness tern families on the newly installed Tern Raft, with young chicks making their home for the season. For members, you may notice some recent improvements to the members’ section at Hide 2, thanks to fundraising from RSPB’s Belfast Local Group in memory of beloved founder Ian Jackson. The hide has new windows, paintwork and a special dedication to Ian.

Experience the beauty of Belfast Lough in its summer glory. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with nature and see local wildlife in action.

Photos: Sam Turley, Ben Andrew, David

Tipling

(all rspb-images.com)

Four-spotted Chaser Dragonfly

Common Tern