Community Spotlight: Susan McSwain

Working late at the Nelson County, Virginia courthouse one evening, Susan McSwain noticed chimney swifts making use of the very old chimney that once served the fireplace in the sheriff's office (back before electricity arrived.) During major renovations of the building, she helped ensure the chimney would not be sealed and even organized a "Swift Night Out" with Allen Hale and the Virginia Master Naturalists to educate the public on the importance of these birds.

Her support of the swifts didn't stop there—Susan built her own swift tower! It was made according to instructions in the aptly named book ,Chimney Swift Towers. At highest count, 30 swifts have roosted in the tower, and right now it's home to a family of six. "Every fall when they leave, I sorely miss them," Susan says. "But if I am lucky to catch them the very day they return in spring, it is quite a scene. They fly all around chirping excitedly, Look, Fred! Our house is still here!"

Susan's swift tower in the early morning.

Susan McSwain is a long-time member of the Central Blue Ridge chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalist program. She encourages anyone who loves nature and life-long learning to consider participating. "Volunteer opportunities abound for you to become part of a community that supports wise management of your area's natural resources, contributes to citizen science, teaches others about nature...You will be amazed at how many doors will open to you as a Master Naturalist, so check it out!" Find a program in your state.

While Chimney Swift Towers is out of print, you can find pertinent information about constructing swift towers from its authors online here. Have you built one? Installed a nest box? Completed some other project around your home to support local birds? We'd love to hear your story!