Swifts are one of the UK’s most fascinating migratory birds. These incredible birds spend almost their entire lives in flight, eating, sleeping, and even mating while on the wing. Each year, they travel thousands of miles from Africa to the UK, filling our skies with their distinctive calls and graceful movement.
Unfortunately, swift populations have fallen dramatically in recent decades. Since 1995, their numbers have declined by more than 60%, and they are now listed as a Red List species of conservation concern in the UK.
Swifts face a number of serious threats that have contributed to their decline. One of the biggest issues is the loss of nesting sites. Older buildings that once provided perfect nesting spots are being renovated or demolished, and new builds are often sealed tightly, leaving few safe spaces for swifts to raise their young. A reduction in flying insects due to pesticide use and habitat loss has also made it harder for swifts to find food. Climate change is another growing problem, affecting their migration routes, timing, and breeding success. Without action to restore nesting sites and protect their food sources, swift populations will continue to fall.
Penrith Swift Group is a volunteer-led charity based in Cumbria that works to protect and restore local swift populations. The group focuses on practical conservation, research, and community education to help these birds thrive again across the region. Their work includes installing and maintaining swift nest boxes on homes, churches, and public buildings, conducting surveys to monitor swift numbers, and working with councils, developers, and homeowners to create swift-friendly spaces. They also run talks and community projects to raise awareness about the importance of swifts and how people can get involved in protecting them.
The work of Penrith Swift Group is vital in addressing one of the biggest causes of swift decline: the loss of nesting habitat. By creating safe nesting opportunities and educating communities about conservation, they are helping to stabilise and grow swift populations in the UK. Their efforts not only support the survival of these birds but also contribute to the wider health of local ecosystems by encouraging biodiversity and responsible building practices.
We donate 10% of profits from your swift socks to Penrith Swift Group.
Our Philosophy
Restoring the biodiversity of our planet and its varied species is at the core of Bare Kind’s mission. By donating 10% of gross profits to charities that support the animals on our socks, we can continue fighting the fight against species extinction.
Bare Kind has been able to achieve an all-time high of donations in recent years. The business expanded its sock range to 40+ pairs and supports 35+ charities.
Our Charity Impact Reports highlight the projects we have been able to fund with our charity partners and the incredible animals we support.
Our hope is that something as humble as a pair of socks can make a lasting impression on our world and change it for the better. A huge thank you goes out to all our customers who have wanted to make a difference and empower the restoration of our planet with their socks.
