Every year in Portland, the Vaux Swift's put on a show in a quiet NW neighborhood right before dusk. This year was the first time we had the pleasure to witness one of nature's equinox treats. It only occurs at this time of year before these little birds migrate south for the winter. The birds found the chimney at Chapman school in the 80's for their evening roost and have been back every year since then. Here are a few photos from Sunday night. Thanks Rand for taking us to the Chapman school to see this for ourselves (so much fun).
1.swift via seattle audubon site. 2. vaux swift @ chapman chimney via yourroadmaptohome.com 3.&4. my little iphone :)
That is great that you got a chance to go see the swifts. I grew up in NW Portland and actually went to Chapman Elementary, but I never remember seeing the swifts when I was a kid. Maybe they still turned on the furnace back then making it an unsafe nesting place. Anyway, I live in LA now and somehow never make it home to visit in the fall. I'll have to plan a fall visit one of these days so I can check the swifts.
Posted by: Christine | September 25, 2012 at 01:46 PM
We were overwhelmed by the ritual of the event, and It's in such a great neighborhood- lucky you ! :)
Posted by: robyn | September 25, 2012 at 03:03 PM
The variety of shapes in that second photograph is amazing - beautiful!
Posted by: Freda | September 26, 2012 at 05:03 AM
Freda ~ So glad you like the photo, it was truly amazing to see in person. Cheers !
Posted by: robyn | September 29, 2012 at 09:44 AM