Sometimes called "flying cigars," Chimney Swifts are unique aerial insectivores. Thought to be related to Hummingbirds, these fast-flying black birds are often mistaken for bats.

Swifts nest in chimneys, their twig nests attached to the brick with saliva. Often young birds are found in fireplaces when summer humidity causes nests to detach from chimney walls.

These birds only have one clutch of young per year starting in July, and are extremely communal. When startled, they have a very loud warning call. Chimney Swifts have tiny feet that allow them to hang vertically.

By the second week in September, these birds begin their migration to South America. Swifts are extremely delicate, and are probably the most challenging species of bird that we rehabilitate.

These Swifts came to us after their nest fell down and could not be returned to the chimney. They were all successfully rehabilitated and released in time for migration.