The Wisconsin Chimney Swift Working Group is excited to announce a new and efficient tool for those interested in monitoring chimney swift roost and nest sites. The site will be available in time for community scientists to use during Swift Night Out events around the state in August and September, 2026.
Read the full press release. (opens in a new tab)
The chittering sounds of Chimney Swifts will be heard once again in Wisconsin starting mid-April into early May as they return from their winter homes in South America. Swifts are small, unique birds, about swallow-sized, that are in flight all day long as they hunt for flying insects. Their flight is rapid and erratic, and their short, tapered tails and scythe-shaped wings make them look like flying cigars. While migrating through the state, large numbers can be found hunting on the wing during the day, and at dusk entering uncapped brick chimneys to roost in for the night.