Chimney Swifts (Chaetura pelagica) are our only swift species in the eastern United States. You might have seenor heard!them in flight, where their bow and arrow body shape and rapid wingbeats set them apart from other birds. You might also have met them in your chimney or fireplace!
As their name suggests, they often spend time in and around chimneys and other human structures, which they nest and roost in during the spring and summer! These mimic the shape of their more natural nesting sites, such as hollowed trees.
Their small but strong feet are uniquely adapted to perching on walls and other flat surfaces, so much so that they're unable to stand like other birds. Any time not spent roosting is spent on the wing. Chimney Swifts leave their chimneys at dawn and stay in flight until dusk. They can eat thousands of insects each day.
Due to deforestation and human development, Chimney Swifts now depend on human structures to nest and raise their youngbut even these spaces are now at risk due to people capping, lining, or no longer using chimneys. Thankfully, many individuals and organizations are working to conserve this species by making sure their chimneys are safe places for them to nest!
Let us be the first to say congratulations! Not only are you helping to conserve a unique, declining species, but you've also scored some fantastic houseguests. Chimney Swifts make for great tenants, spending most of their time in flight and catching thousands of insects each day. Their tiny nests also pose no risk to your chimney, causing neither blockages nor structural damage.
Plus, as a migratory species, young and adult birds alike will be gone by early fall, flying down to spend their winters in the Amazon River Basin and leaving your chimney ready for use by the time it gets cold.
Many people dont realize they are Chimney Swift landlords until they find nestlings in their fireplace. This is especially common during hot, humid summers, where their nestsmade of small twigs held together with their special sticky salivamay disintegrate before the chicks are fledged.
If you find fallen Chimney Swift nestlings in your house or place of business, it is essential to get in touch with an experienced wildlife rehabilitator immediately. These experts will help evaluate the fallen chicks and create a re-nesting strategy for your specific situation.
You can contact the Sharon 91做厙 Center's Wildlife Rehabilitation Clinic by calling us at 860-492-0106 or emailing us at mackenzie.hunter@audubon.org. Please follow the directions provided in our voicemail and email.
To find other licensed wildlife rehabilitators near you, look to the following state agencies and resources:
When a local business found a family of Chimney Swifts in their establishment, advice from our expert rehabilitation staff helped them successfully renest the fallen birds!
Chimney Swifts have experienced an estimated 67% decline in population. Like many other birds, they are vulnerable to habitat loss and pesticide use. For this reason, this vulnerable species is a conservation priority for 91做厙 Connecticut and New York.
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