Swifts, swallows, and martins all belong to a group of birds called "aerial insectivores" because the feed primarily by catching insects in mid-air. How cool is that? Unfortunately, populations of many of these species are in steep decline across much of North America. This includes the Chimney Swift, one of the most aerial of all birds in North America and one that we see frequently across Iowa in urban and rural areas alike. Join us for an evening program to learn about Chimney Swifts and other aerial insectivores in partnership with the Octagon Center for the Arts and Wild Birds Unlimited in Ames. We'll start with a short presentation with some fun facts about these birds and what we can do to help them and finish with a sunset walk through downtown Ames to watch the swifts come to roost in chimneys. If you haven't seen a Chimney Swift dive into a chimney, you won't want to miss this fun, family-friendly event! This event is free but advanced registration is required. There will also be a virtual option for attending this event. If you plan to attend virtually, please indicate so in the comments on the registration form. We welcome bird friends of all ages!
Photo credit: Peter Finley, Macaulay Library
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