Madison, WI – As chimney swifts begin their annual fall migration, Wisconsin residents are being encouraged to watch for the birds’ unique evening roosting behavior.
According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, the migration period runs from mid-August in northern Wisconsin to early September in the southern part of the state. During this time, the small, fast-flying birds often gather in large flocks at dusk before spiraling into tall, uncapped brick chimneys to roost for the night.
The DNR advises birdwatchers to look for swifts swooping and circling near chimneys as a sign they may settle there. Ideal viewing times are from about 20 minutes before sunset until 10 minutes after the last swift enters.
Wildlife officials also recommend participating in “Swift Night Out” events, where volunteers can help count the birds as part of an ongoing tracking effort. Data collected assists researchers in monitoring population trends for the species, which faces habitat loss as older chimneys are capped or demolished.
Those interested in contributing to the project can find identification tips, event details, and instructions for submitting swift counts on the Wisconsin Chimney Swift Working Group’s website at www.wiswifts.org.
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