A swift, it has been claimed, flies the equivalent of four times to the Moon and back during an average lifespan of about nine years when it remains on the wing except for nesting.

The safe arrival of common swifts(apus apus) after exhausting Africa to Sidcup migration flights is always among my annual birding highlights.

Monday May 3 was the first day this year I glimpsed a swift from my bedroom window, probably regretting leaving sunny Africa as it battled into strong headwinds and showers. This was two days earlier than my first sighting last year.

Eight days later I counted 17 swifts wheeling around the house. One swooped so low over my garden it needed to pull up vertically to clear the house roof. It was probably seeking a nest space.

Locating cracks and crevices in buildings and roofs is increasingly difficult for swifts. A new book by swift enthusiast Sarah Gibson describes both conflict with and energetic support from people for a bird significant enough to be recognised by World Swift Day on June 7.

Wild Things: Basking in the sunshine

Image courtesy of William Collins

Image courtesy of William Collins

Sarah’s book includes startling statistics. Counting birds which never land is complex but there are estimated to be between 95 million and 165 million swifts of 90 worldwide varieties. The British breeding population of common swifts is 60,000. These figures seem high but Sarah claims the swift population here declines by five per cent EACH YEAR they return. Numbers dropped by 42 per cent in 10 years and latest figures suggest a 32 per cent fall in just seven years. Swifts are now amber-listed.

Factors include collisions, food shortage, storms, predation and disease as well as human interference. When swifts reach European destinations they often find traditional nest holes blocked by house remedial work or netting. Uncomprehending builders seal nest holes with breeding swifts still inside.

Wild Things: A shocking new report

Sarah says action can be taken. Swifts accept nest boxes under eaves and new “swiftbricks” feature nest boxes concealed behind housebricks with entry holes.

Sara Gibson insists people who never look up must be educated about swifts. Her fact-packed and absorbing book puts swifts firmly in the spotlight.

Swifts and Us by Sarah Gibson is published by William Collins price £16.99.

For World Swift Day information visit: worldswiftday.org