Chimney Swift Conservation in Georgia

Atlanta Audubon has chosen the Chimney Swift as our focal species for 2019-2020. A cigar-shaped bird, Chimney Swifts spend the summer months in Atlanta, and their high-pitched twittering is often heard overhead. They have adapted to a life among humans, finding a home in chimneys after their preferred old-growth trees began disappearing. 

However, Chimney Swifts are in trouble. The conservation status of the Chimney Swift was recently updated to Vulnerable on the International Union of Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Stating that "“In recent times, the number of available chimneys has decreased as a result of the demolition of old buildings, the capping of old chimneys, and through chimney sweeps removing nests from chimneys (despite the species being protected by federal law). Even though a scarcity of chimneys may not be limiting the numbers of Chimney Swifts yet, the rate of habitat loss is increasing and possibly developing into a severe threat.” 

Ultimately, the Chimney Swift is a bird connected to people. With their epic agility and stamina, their appetite for biting insects, and their propensity for nesting in our chimneys during the summer months, Chimney Swifts and humans have a unique connection. We need to pitch in to ensure the continued health of this species. 

HOW WE CAN HELP

Funds raised during Giving Tuesday will be used right here in Georgia to support Chimney Swift conservation projects such as:

• Construction of Chimney Swift towers
• Bird-friendly, native plant habitat restoration 
• Public education and awareness campaigns to build bird-friendly communities
• Building collision monitoring during each spring and fall migration period