Chimney Swift Rescue & Living with Birds in the Chimney

Although the sound of Chimney Swifts is not music to everyone’s ears, Chimney Swifts are extremely beneficial. Two parents and their noisy offspring will consume over 12,000 flying insect pests every day. These include only small things like mosquitoes, gnats, termites and biting flies. Unfortunately Chimney Swift numbers are in decline due to loss of habitat — first large hollow trees, and now open masonry chimneys.

The very loudest sounds are made by the babies when they are being fed by the parents. Although it is quite loud, there will be only one active nest in any chimney at one time. Normally by the time the babies become loud enough to hear, they are less than a couple of weeks from being old enough to feed themselves. After that, most of the loud noise will be over.

Chimney Swifts are fascinating and beneficial birds. They are also extremely adaptable. This is why when their native habitat of large hollow trees in the forests of North America were removed, they learned to nest and roost in chimneys and air shafts. Consequently, Chimney Swifts and humans often come in contact with each other and complications can occur.

Following are some links to solutions of common problems that may arise when birds meet people:

Being a Good Chimney Swift Landlord

What to Do With a Fallen Chimney Swift Nest

Coming to the Aid of Adult and Juvenile Chimney Swifts

Rehabilitation and Conservation of Chimney Swifts