GermanyThe article discusses the decline in the population of house martins (Mehlschwalben) in Thuringia, Germany. According to the Nature Conservation Union (Nabu), many nests remained unoccupied this year, with only 25–30% of nesting sites being used compared to the usual 50–60%. The reasons cited include poor weather conditions, industrialized agriculture, and the loss of breeding habitats. House martins returned later than usual from their African wintering grounds due to snowfall and cold rain periods in the Alps in 2025. In contrast, sand martins (Rauchschwalben) are doing better because they hunt insects closer to the ground, which is more accessible during rainy and cold weather. The Nabu has recognized individuals and farms that support swallows, including a farm near Erfurt where house martins and sand martins breed. Since 2011, the Nabu has awarded 2,170 people with certificates for swallow-friendly homes.
Bias read (Center): The article presents environmental concerns related to wildlife decline, citing scientific observations and conservation efforts by the Nabu. It does not take a clear ideological stance but reports on ecological issues and human impact on nature. There is no overtly biased language or selective use/
