Migratory bird struggles for shelter as chimneys torn down

[Judi Lynn]

Migratory bird struggles for shelter as chimneys torn down
Sep 28, 2:35 AM EDT
GILLIAN FLACCUS
Associated Press

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) -- The Vaux's (pronounced VOX) Swift, a tiny migratory bird species, has adapted well to urban living and now roosts in old brick chimneys along the West Coast during its annual migration from Canada to Central America and back.

But the birds' numbers are dwindling and scientists worry it may be because the pre-1940 brick chimneys the species prefers are being demolished for urban redevelopment and because of earthquake fears.

A move is afoot to build replacement towers for the birds.

The birds can fly for about 100 miles at a time between stops and must roost in large numbers in tight, enclosed spaces because their body temperature drops at night.

http://hosted.ap.org/dynamic/stories/U/US_MIGRATORY_BIRD_DECLINE?SITE=AP&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT&CTIME=2016-09-28-02-35-03

(Short article, no more at link.)

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[NickB79]

1. My guess is that they used to roost in dead, hollow trees before the advent of chimneys

But widespread deforestation of old-growth forests removed that natural cavity dwelling option for them.