Why Are Swallows Vanishing from Our Skies—and What Can We Do About It

Struggling to spot swallows darting through the summer air? You’re not alone—these agile insect-eaters are declining across North America and Europe. Experts point to habitat loss and pesticide use as culprits, with a Cornell Lab study noting a steep drop in barn swallow numbers since the 1970s due to fewer flying insects. Drawing from years of birdwatching, I’ve seen their mud nests dwindle on old barns near my home. Dig into the real reasons behind their decline, backed by research from the Audubon Society, and discover practical steps to bring them back—because the silence of empty skies is louder than you think.