Chimney Swifts start to band together into large roost groups before their fall migration to South America.  Locally, in recent years, thousands of these birds have used the chimney at the Carolina Theatre and nearby chimneys in Greensboro for such a large amassing. It is quite impressive to watch them in this annual behavior, as they circle above and all around, and then begin to spiral into the building at sunset, hundreds at a time.

Location: We'll meet downtown on S.Greene Street between Exchange Place and W. McGee Street. This is about a block from where we met at the Carolina Theatre in previous years.  If you are using GPS, aim for the small office building at 337 S. Greene St.   There is street parking right there and a large public lot, both of which are free after 6:00pm.   

We've seen (and heard) small numbers of swifts starting around 7:00pm.  The scream  has been growing between 7:15 and 7:30.  Sunset on Wednesday will be around 7:25 and the swifts usually don't go in the chimney before sunset.  The last two nights they started funneling down around 7:40.  Conservatively speaking, there have been at least a thousand birds the last few nights.

Time: Sunset will be at about 7:20 p.m.    Duration: about an hour.

Habitat: urban setting

Difficulty rating: 1; a little walking on city sidewalks

Provisions needed: Binoculars and camera phones might enhance the experience.

Cancellation: Cancels with inclement weather. Contact the Trip Coordinator.

Trip Coordinator: Jim Gant, 703-919-2570, jhgllg07@gmail.com