Fall Swift Watch And Migratory Bird Celebration Returns To Stewart Park

ROSEBURG, Ore. - The Umpqua Bird Alliance will host two evenings of birdwatching, live music, and family activities at Stewart Park as migrating Vaux’s Swifts return to the Umpqua Valley.

The Roseburg Fall Swift Watch and Umpqua Valley Migratory Bird Celebration will take place Friday, Sept. 18, and Friday, Sept. 25. Both events begin at 6:30 p.m. near the Clay Place chimney in the Fir Grove section of Stewart Park, off Harvard Avenue behind the Umpqua Valley Arts Center.

Vaux’s Swifts, pronounced “vawks,” generally begin entering the chimney near sunset. Sunset is expected around 7:15 p.m. on Sept. 18 and closer to 7 p.m. on Sept. 25.

Weather permitting, the Swifts Sisters and Friends will perform Americana music beginning around 6:30 p.m.

During migration, Vaux’s Swifts gather in groups that can number in the dozens, hundreds, or even thousands before entering a shared roost for the night. In urban areas, the birds often use old industrial chimneys as substitutes for the large, hollow trees found in old-growth forests.

The species nests only in western North America and migrates to Central and South America for the winter. Its natural habitat has declined, and fewer suitable chimneys remain available for nesting and roosting. According to the Umpqua Bird Alliance, only four of Oregon’s 11 historically significant chimney roost sites remain available to the birds.

Alliance members will serve as interpretive naturalists during both events, offering information and brochures about Vaux’s Swifts, birdwatching, and the region’s natural environment. Members will also participate in a West Coast data collection effort tracking swift migration.

Federal and state agencies are expected to join the celebration in recognition of World Migratory Bird Day. Bird-related activities and information about migration will be available for children.

Organizers said two rescued Cedar Waxwings may also attend as ambassador birds representing migratory species.

The free event is a partnership between the Umpqua Bird Alliance and the City of Roseburg Parks and Recreation.

For more information, contact the Umpqua Bird Alliance at info@umpquaaudubon.org.