The swifts are back! But not for long. Chimney Swifts have been in Columbus all summer, eating mosquitos and other insect pests. (Hooray for the swifts!) But they soon will begin their migration to South American. Before they leave here, they will congregate in overnight roosts. Their favorite roost locations are chimneys — yup, the’s why they are called Chimney Swifts.
Dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of swifts may roost in one chimney. A little before dusk, they flock above the chimney, swirling around and around. Then suddenly the first few dive in, then more, then more, until a steady stream of swifts is flowing into the top of the chimney. It’s an amazing sight.
We count swifts entering the chimneys at several sites in central Ohio. Scientists can use our counts to help track swift populations. But it’s also fascinating! Come join us and see what the fuss is all about.
Columbus Audubon organizes swift counts in Dublin at Sells Middle School, in Westerville at the Masonic lodge uptown, and in Clintonville at Bishop Watterson High School. The nationwide “Swift Nights Out” are August 13 and 14 and September 10 and 11. Check the Columbus Audubon Events Calendar for dates and details of a count near you.