MUSEUM : Our Swifts in North Down

 The Common Swift is a remarkable summer visitor, speeding through our towns with its distinctive screams. Their numbers have declined by over 25% in 25 years due to the loss of nesting sites in modern buildings. Bangor birdwatching expert Dot Blakely has spent decades inspiring people to notice birds like these, from her work with the North Down Birdwatching Club to radio broadcasts and university courses. Passionate about connecting people with nature, and a member of North Down Swift Conservation Group, Dot encourages everyone—young and old—to pause, look up, and listen. For her, birdwatching is simple, joyful, and always on our doorstep.