There are four species of swifts native to North America.  The Vaux's Swift is the only swift species on the west coast.

In the links to the right, there are some amazing videos and photos of swifts entering chimneys in the Pacific Northwest.

In the spring and fall, groups of Vaux's Swifts (Chaetura vauxi) use chimneys and snags as communal roosts along their migratory route. Pilchuck Audubon is heading a project to assess where these roosting spots are and how many birds may be using them. See the Vaux's Happening web site. Whittier Johnson has agreed to coordinate the Black Hills Audubon effort to support this project.

If you know of locations where swifts have been seen, please share this with Whittier (866-8156). Note the address where the birds are roosting and the approximate number of birds.

Vaux's Happening Project needs volunteers:

• Spring and fall - report locations where swifts roost

• Spring and fall - count the number of swifts using chimneys in Olympia and Thurston County

• Summer  - report on Swift nesting locations

• Summer  - report on lakes where swifts are feeding

In the Capitol neighborhood of Olympia there are at least two houses where swifts have been known to roost, historically.  There may be other locations. You can help find those locations.

Screening of chimneys is a growing problem. Houses where the birds roosted one year are often unavailable the next. It is possible that in years to come artificial roosting boxes will be used to replace screened chimneys. First we need to assess where the birds roost and how many birds are using each site.

 Your help is needed and will be greatly appreciated.