Scott Burnet will join us with an interesting look at the species Chaetura pelagica (Chimney Swift).
This exciting program will look at many aspects of Chimney Swifts including:
- Physical description of the species, and how to ID them through images. This includes “tongue-incheek” methods to distinguish them from bats!
- Unique anatomy and physiology of these birds including flight characteristics, etc.
- Life history – including range, diet, breeding, migration, etc.
- Conservation concerns for this species: they are listed as a “species of concern” Populations have steeply declined in recent decades.
- A special emphasis on Chimney Swift Tower constructions, their description and siting requirements.
- Municipal responsibility to protect an “urban” bird, including historical and anecdotal references.
- Lots of photos, and a cool, 40 second video!!
- Question and answer period
About Scott Burnet
Scott Burnet started birding at age four in rural Lehigh County. His interest in birds was fostered by his maternal grandparents, who raised him. He has birded on five continents. He constructed his first bird conservation project at age 14 – a 100+ box bluebird trail. He has been an Executive Board member of Lehigh Valley Audubon Society since 2011, and is also the Habitat Committee Chairman for LVAS.
Scott has installed over 1000 nest boxes for a multitude of species, in five PA Counties. Always interested in Chimney Swifts, he constructed his first Chimney Swift tower, attached to his garage, in 201. Since then he has built or consulted on over twenty swift towers in PA and NJ.
An avid bird photographer, his favorite North American species is the American Woodcock. His favorite World species is the Palm Cockatoo, which he was fortunate enough to see in 2007.
