They also appeared in several places in the county of Veszprém, among others at the county seat, but also in Balatonalmádi, Balatonfűzfő and Szigliget. In a statement on Saturday morning, the municipality of the latter lakeside settlement called attention, especially to motorists, to watch out for the little birds. In Szigliget, streets, gardens, and green areas have been flooded en masse for days, mainly near the water, typically very close to the ground level. Moreover, many small birds rest on the surface of the road and pavement, and thus the danger of vehicle traffic also lurks for them in addition to harsh weather.
In Szigliget, swallows have been overwhelming the streets, gardens, and green areas for days, especially near the water
Photo: János Szijártó/Napló
Tapolca bird breeder Béla Pócsi said in relation to the unusually large number of swallows that this summer was favorable for them, so instead of the usual two nests, many pairs took on three. The problem arose due to the sudden cooling of the weather, because the chicks of the third nest are not yet strong enough to migrate, they need a few more days, even one and a half, two weeks to be ready for the big trip. However, the cold and rain greatly reduced the number of insects serving as food and forced the existing ones closer to the soil, which still gives off some heat. That is why swallows fly very low, and signs of panic come from the hunger of the little birds. There are a lot of people in one habitat and little food. Béla Pócsi emphasized that we should not feed them bread or seeds, as they are insectivores.
Many small birds rest on the surface of the road and pavement
Photo: János Szijártó / Diary
A Mály Nature Conservation Association based on his suggestion, it is worth exposing live mealworms to the swallows in a wide, flat bowl. If you find a wet swallow on the ground, pick it up and bring it into the house in a shoebox lined with paper towels. If the swallow trembles, squirms, or falls over, we can put a warm water bottle in the box next to the swallow. If it is very justified, it can also be dried and reheated with a hair dryer at low speed. It is important to have it in your hand, so you can feel when the air is too hot. If the swallow is wet, you can carefully wipe it with a kitchen paper towel, taking care of its feathers.
What factors led to the sudden influx of swallows in Szigliget, Hungary?
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Swallows Overwhelm Streets and Gardens in Szigliget, Hungary Due to Unfavorable Weather Conditions
The beautiful county of Veszprém in Hungary has been witnessing an unusual phenomenon in recent days – streets, gardens, and green areas have been flooded with swallows, particularly in the lakeside settlement of Szigliget. The sudden influx of these small birds has raised concerns among residents and motorists, who are being warned to exercise caution to avoid harming them.
Causes of the Swallows’ Invasion
According to Tapolca bird breeder Béla Pócsi, this summer has been favorable for swallows, resulting in an unusually large number of them. Many pairs have taken on three nests instead of the usual two, leading to an explosion in their population. However, the sudden cooling of the weather has created a problem for the chicks of the third nest, which are not yet strong enough to migrate. They need a few more days, even one and a half to two weeks, to be ready for the big trip.
The cold and rain have greatly reduced the number of insects, which are the primary source of food for swallows. As a result, the existing insects are forced closer to the soil, which still gives off some heat. This has led to swallows flying very low in search of food, and signs of panic are evident due to the hunger of the little birds.
Consequences of the Swallows’ Presence
The streets, gardens, and green areas of Szigliget have been flooded with swallows, with many of them resting on the surface of roads and pavements. This has created a hazardous situation for both the birds and motorists. The municipality of Szigliget has issued a warning to motorists to watch out for the swallows, particularly in areas with low-lying vegetation.
Residents are also being advised not to feed the swallows bread or seeds, as they are insectivores and require a specific diet to survive. Incorrect feeding can harm the birds and disrupt the ecosystem.
Experts Weigh In
Béla Pócsi, an experienced bird breeder, emphasizes the importance of understanding the swallows’ behavior and needs. “We should not feed them bread or seeds, as they are insectivores. Instead, we should create an environment that supports their natural diet and encourages their survival.”
The Mály Nature Conservation Association, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting Hungary’s natural heritage, is also closely monitoring the situation. They are working to raise awareness about the importance of preserving insect habitats and promoting sustainable practices to support biodiversity.
What Can Be Done to Help the Swallows?
While the situation in Szigliget is unprecedented, there are steps that can be taken to help the swallows and ensure their safe passage. Here are a few ways to contribute:
Create insect-friendly habitats by planting flowers and herbs that attract insects.
Avoid using pesticides, which can harm insects and disrupt the food chain.
Support local organizations like the Mály Nature Conservation Association, which work to protect Hungary’s natural heritage.
Spread awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity and the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
As the weather conditions continue to challenge the swallows, it is essential to come together as a community to support these magnificent creatures and ensure their survival.
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What are the reasons for the sudden increase in swallow populations in Szigliget, Hungary?
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Swallows Overwhelm Streets and Gardens in Szigliget, Hungary Due to Unfavorable Weather Conditions
The beautiful county of Veszprém in Hungary has been witnessing an unusual phenomenon in recent days – streets, gardens, and green areas have been flooded with swallows, particularly in the lakeside settlement of Szigliget. The sudden influx of these small birds has raised concerns among residents and motorists, who are being warned to exercise caution to avoid harming them.
Causes of the Swallows’ Invasion
According to Tapolca bird breeder Béla Pó
