Hello all, Numbers have been building at the roost chimney in Cambridge (Hespeler). Last Friday between 8:15 p.m. and 8:35 p.m., Hannah Maciver and I observed 62 Chimney Swifts enter the chimney for the night. This evening between 8:10 p.m. and 8:25 p.m., Mary Lou Kastner, Hannah and I observed between 106 and 146 Chimney Swifts enter the chimney. If last year is a reliable indicator, numbers will peak in the next few days. If you have never witnessed this wildlife spectacle it can be quite enchanting. Nothing compared to the thousands of birds recorded for some other chimneys in the 1940s, but captivating nevertheless.
Also in the vicinity were five or six Common Nighthawks foraging over the Speed River at dusk (not unusual for this time of year). Regards, Robert Maciver Directions: The roost chimney is situated behind Ernie's restaurant in that part of Cambridge formerly known as Hespeler. Exit the 401 at Hesleper Rd (exit 282) and travel north to Queen St. W. Turn right on Queen St. W. and travel approximately 1 km. Just before reaching the traffic signal at the intersection of Queen St. W. and Guelph Ave. you will see a KFC on your right. Park across the street from the KFC in the BMO parking lot. From the parking lot you will see a large chimney in the rear of Ernie's restaurant which is the roost chimney. _______________________________________________ ONTBIRDS is presented by the Ontario Field Ornithologists - the provincial birding organization. Send bird reports to [email protected] For information about ONTBIRDS visit http://www.ofo.ca/
