May 6
The series is sponsored by Roseburg Parks and Recreation with the Umpqua Valley Audubon Society and federal and state agencies. Those attending are encouraged to gather near the Umpqua Valley Arts Clay Place behind the main UVA building on West Harvard, between 6:30 p.m. and sunset to see displays by Vaux’s Swifts before the birds drop into the studio’s chimney to roost for the night.
The evening will also be used to celebrate Migratory Bird Day which is this Saturday.
Each night, dozens, hundreds or even thousands of the tiny birds use the chimney to roost during the spring migration northward, which goes as far as Canada for nesting in the summer. Audubon Society members count the birds as part of a west coast data-collection effort, and will serve as interpretive naturalists answering questions. Federal agencies will offer kid’s activities and live bird displays, prehistoric bird displays and other information.
Organizers urge those attending to bring a folding chair, camp chair or blanket, or just watch from their vehicle.
Contact the Umpqua Valley Audubon Society at 680-0436 for more information.