Swifts and swallows are the living soundtrack of summer in the UK - effortless acrobats that dart through our skies as they gather food for their chicks. With busy nests full of growing mouths, these birds need a reliable, high-protein food source.
But in an age of shrinking green spaces and fewer insects, we all have a part to play in helping them thrive. That’s where we come in.
At Walter Products, our mealworms and Calci Worms offer a simple, effective boost - packed with the goodness they need to fuel their families all summer long.
Why Swifts and Swallows Need Extra Support
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Nesting demands: As they feed growing chicks, parents collect hundreds of insects each day—hungry mouths require high-protein fuel.
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Environmental pressures: Urban developments and pesticide use have significantly reduced natural insect populations.
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Rapid breeding cycles: These birds raise multiple broods, and successive nests demand continuous food sources.
By offering nutritious, insect-like snacks from Walter Products, you can help these aerial gardeners keep their families healthy and thriving.
Our Picks for Swifts & Swallows
1. Mealworms
A summer staple, mealworms are rich in protein and ideal for insect-eating species:
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High in essential amino acids for chick growth and energy.
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Great for active parents returning to roost.
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Versatile and easy to offer via shallow dishes or mealworm feeders.
2. Calci Worms
These are mealworms’ higher-calcium counterpart:
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Boost bone development and eggshell strength.
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Support fledglings’ rapid growth and development.
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Blended with mealworms, they offer a powerful nutritional package.
How to Offer the Food
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Shallow, open dishes: A wide plant saucer or mealworm feeder allows easy access mid-flight.
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Evening timing: Refill just before dusk when parents return to feed young.
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Water source nearby: Provide a bird bath or dripper for hydration and bathing.
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Consistency matters: Keep fresh food available nightly for uninterrupted nesting success.
Garden Tips to Attract & Support
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Insect-friendly planting: Grow wildflowers, herbs, and nectar-rich plants to attract insects.
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Minimise pesticides: Create a safe, food-rich environment for insect life.
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Add nesting options: Install swift boxes or schwegler bricks on your property to offer secure nesting sites.
Swift & Swallow Essential Care Summary
| Need | Best Walter Products Solution |
|---|---|
| High-protein food | Mealworms |
| Calcium boost | Calci Worms |
| Natural diet variety | Insect meal blends |
| Access & hydration | Shallow feeders + bird baths |
| Habitat support | Wildlife planting & nest boxes |
By offering mealworms, calci worms, and insect blends, you're providing the exact nutrients swifts and swallows need during their busiest season.
Alongside clean water and natural habitat features, your garden can become a thriving support hub for these remarkable birds.
Visit our shop to explore our full range of summer bird foods and help future generations of swifts and swallows leap into the sky with strength and vitality.
