Update: The trip is ON for April 29. See you there!

Join us to explore the architecture of downtown Columbia from the perspective of Chimney Swifts, and to watch for possible roosting activity during spring migration. 

These fascinating birds use open chimneys as overnight roost sites, otherwise remaining in constant flight. During the fall 2024 migration, trip leaders Eric & Joanna Reuter observed flocks of swifts roosting in chimneys on 9 downtown buildings. This walk will feature 6 of these locations while discussing the surprising behavioral complexity of these birds. 

In addition to admiring architecture, we’ll watch and listen for all species of birds in this urban area that often has considerable avian activity. The walk is timed to arrive at the most likely sites for swift activity around sunset (8:00 p.m. on April 29), in hopes of watching some spring migration roosting action over the subsequent half an hour. 

Meet at the corner of 6th and Cherry (in front of the parking garage) at 7:00 p.m. Total round trip walking distance ~2 miles on city streets. We’ll return to the starting point by approximately 8:45 p.m. Bring binoculars if you have them. 

In the event of inclement weather, the walk will be postponed one week to Tuesday May 6. Please check this listing on the CAS website for updates on event status. 

This walk is co-sponsored by US Fish & Wildlife Service.

Update: Chimney Swifts have returned to Columbia! On the drizzly evening of 4/24, roughly 200 roosted in a chimney that will be on the tour. The forecast suggests rain and/or storms are possible. We will post an update about whether the event will go ahead or be postponed by noon (at the latest) on the day of the event. Threat of thunderstorms would be cause for postponement; if the forecast suggests just showers, the event will go ahead on schedule. 

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Feel free to review the CAS field trip guidelines for participants and leaders!