Upswing for the nature conservation association's swallow campaign

The "Swallows Welcome" campaign run by the German Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) in Saxony is experiencing a boom. Since the project began in 2016, around 1,380 animal lovers have applied for and received the award, as the NABU regional association announced on request. In some places, 2025 was described as a good year for swallows because there was enough food for the birds. In areas such as the region around Grimma, few swallows returned from their wintering grounds or did not return at all.

Martins and barn swallows are classified as critically endangered in the Saxony Red List and their population is declining. Renovation measures on buildings, the decline in flying insects and the use of pesticides are blamed for this.

The swallow campaign aims to raise awareness among the population and provides tips on how to help the elegant gliders "under the wings". According to the campaign, swallows' nests should not be removed and the birds should be allowed to enter through windows and gates. Moist clay could also be provided as a building material for their nests.