10 June 2013

Swift Using New Urban Chimney


The new swift tower. Image courtesy of Marge Lumpe.

A chimney swift has been seen using the new chimney built on the city building at Cole Camp, Missouri.

After a previous report of a swift, Marge Lumpe visited the structure on June 7th, and saw one bird come in and use the shelter as a roost, she indicated in an email. She also commented that "Joyce Rosson of the Missouri Bird listserve said it was really lucky to get anyone using a brand new structure. She assured me that when one bird or pair find the tower, more will follow."

Construction of the new chimney was completed in mid-April, with the local Master Naturalists involved in getting it built. Donations were used to pay for the structure, and any monetary contributions are still welcome, and can be sent to Lumpe (P.O. Box 448, Cole Camp, MO 65325; or contact her at birdwatcher@msn.com).

The original brick and mortar chimney, despite efforts to retain the structure, could not be suitably rehabilitated for swift use, due to its poor structural condition.