We're working with Hampshire Ornithological Society to provide homes for struggling House Martins.
As part of an initiative to improve outcomes for Swifts, Swallows, and Martins across our supply area, we have funded 100 artificial double nest cups for this project. They have now been fitted Hampshire properties in our supply area in mid March
We're delighted to hear we've had the first reports of the artificial nest cups being used, and look forward to further sightings.
Why are they struggling?
House Martins return from Africa in April and May to spend the summer in the UK. They catch flying insects on the wing and build cup-shaped mud nests under the eaves of houses and other buildings.
Deteriorating insect-rich habitats may be making it difficult for them to find food. When the weather is dry, it can be difficult for them to find soft mud to build their nests.
Another issue causing their decline is that their nests stick less easily to modern plastic soffits and may fall off killing their eggs or young.
Learn more about the progress of the nest cups
Click the button below for more information about the project