Discover North East Scotland Swift Events

Join events with NES Swifts (Huntly Swift Group) and help protect one of our NESBiP Big 5 species.

 

Meet the Common Swift – a NESBiP Big 5 species.

The Common Swift is one of the NESBiP Big 5, a group of priority species for conservation in North East Scotland.

Swifts are remarkable migratory birds, travelling from Africa each year to breed in our towns and villages. Sadly, they are in serious decline due to the loss of nesting sites and environmental changes.

About NES Swifts

NES Swifts (formerly Huntly Swift Group) are a community-led group working across the North East to protect swifts and other aerial insectivores.

Their work includes:

  • Hosting swift walks, talks, and events
  • Carrying out surveys to find nesting sites
  • Supporting swift-friendly buildings and renovations
  • Helping communities install nest boxes and swift bricks

Swifts return to the same nesting places every year, so protecting these sites is essential.

Upcoming North East Swift Events

Swift Walk in Insch

Date: Tuesday 16 June 2026
Time: 20:30 – 22:00
Location: Fast Fry’s, Western Road, Insch
Find out more & book your place: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/swift-walk-in-insch-tickets-1990476987251

Swift Walk & Talk at Haughton House

Date: Thursday 18th June
Time: 20:30
Location: Haughton House, Alford
Find out more & book your place: https://www.ticketsource.com/huntly-swift-group-nes-swifts/t-plmqrmn

The Other Taylor Swift (Film Screening + Walk)

Date: 2 July 2026
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Number 30, Huntly
Find out more & book your place: https://www.number30.org/movie/the-other-taylor-swift/

Swift Walk & Talk in Huntly

Date: Tuesday 7th July
Time: 20:30 – 22:00
Location: The Square, Huntly
Find out more & book your place: https://www.ticketsource.com/huntly-swift-group-nes-swifts/t-jxrxmao

Picture of a swift's head close up - Image from Huntly & District Swift Group

Swift © Eero Kiuru

Swift in flight by Peter Bartholomew - Huntly Swift Group

Swift in flight © Peter Bartholomew

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Join North East Swift Events?

Attending a local event is a great way to

  • Learn how to identify swifts and their behaviour
  • Find out how to survey your local area
  • Discover how to protect nesting sites
  • Experience the spectacle of swifts flying overhead on summer evenings

How You Can Help Swifts

You can make a real difference by:

  • Joining events and surveys (May–July)
  • Recording sightings in your area
  • Installing swift nest boxes or bricks
  • Raising awareness in your community

Recording where swifts nest helps ensure these sites are protected in future developments.

Get Involved

Together for Swifts

Swifts are a special part of summer in North East Scotland. By getting involved, you can help ensure they continue to thrive for generations to come.

Every nest counts. Every sighting matters. Every action helps.

Upcoming North East Scotland Swift Events

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