You’ve probably heard by now that the Vaux’s swifts have left Chapman Elementary — their main stop in Portland since at least the nineties.
It’s not clear why they haven't come back there — or whether they'll return. But here are some bird-watching tips for now, including where they’ve been spotted around town:
🖊️ Tips for Helping Keep the Swifts Around:
If you do go in search of watching the annual fall migration, please take care not to scare them off — or annoy property owners into wanting to take action to move the birds along.
Here are some common-sense tips from Joe Liebezeit, the statewide conservation director for the Bird Alliance of Oregon: “ Be considerate of the communities,” he says.
- Do not get close to the birds with a drone. This should be obvious, but it wasn’t at Chapman — it's one theory of why they left. “ We know that drones are perceived by birds as a predator,” says Liebezeit.
- Keep off private property where there are security guards warning you away — or it’s otherwise extremely obvious that swift-watchers aren’t welcome. “Sometimes you'll see people [at some locations], and it's probably okay in those instances,” he says.
- Walk or take public transit if at all possible, so you’re not part of overwhelming the area with traffic. If you do go by car, try to park at a distance.
- Take your trash with you.
Property owners who have swifts are encouraged to contact the Bird Alliance of Oregon for support.
🐦 Where They Have Been Sighted:
Thankfully, the swifts are still visiting Portland, but are choosing new locations. There are several spots the birds have picked this year, which have been shared widely online, including:
Abernethy Elementary (Ladd’s Addition)
Abernethy has been seeing a substantial number. Good news: Like Chapman, this is a public spot. You are welcome here, but again, please, don’t scare off the birds.
Peace Lutheran Church (North Rosa Parks Way)
It's a spot where birdwatchers have maintained a count in past years. And there have been sightings this year too.
Bertman House (37th and Washington, Milwaukie)
The swifts didn't show last year here. But they’ve now returned. (Maybe that’s a hopeful sign for Chapman in future years.)
📲 Have you had a chance to seen the swifts this year? Please email us if you’re willing to share your viewing spot. (Click here or respond to this email.)
