Between 1994 and 2006, the number of swifts breeding in the south-east of England halved after many traditional nesting sites vanished due to building repair work.

Cherwell District Council and the Kirtlington Wildlife and Conservation Society want residents to record any swift's nest they see – usually found in the eaves or gaps of buildings – so a list can be compiled.

It is hoped it could make a difference during the planning process, so if building work poses a risk to recorded sites, they can be moved, rebuilt or nest boxes put up.

Cllr Nigel Morris, councillor for urban and rural services at CDC, said: "This scheme demonstrates the council's commitment to protecting local wildlife through its biodiversity action plan, which will help make the district a greener and cleaner place to live and work."

Swifts are only in the UK during May through to early August so the next seven weeks are the best time for people to catch sight of them. The birds can be identified through their distinctive screaming display during flight, more noticeable on summer evenings.

To obtain a form for recording breeding swifts and nest sites, contact Chris Mason from the Kirtlington Wildlife and Conservation Society, on 01869 350518, email mason@cando.eclipse.co.uk or contact Sue Marchand, CDC biodiversity and countryside officer, on 01295 221707.

Returned forms will be passed on to the Thames Valley Environmental Records Centre, which collects, collates and publishes information about the natural environment in Oxfordshire and Berkshire.

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