MASS MORTALITY OF VAUX'S SWIFTS IN SOUTHERN OREGON

Abstract

Abstract We describe a mass mortality event at a school in Medford, Oregon in which the remains of over 5600 Vaux's Swifts (Chaetura vauxi) were found at the bottom of a chimney. The use of operating chimneys by migratory aggregations of this species poses the risk of significant mortality. We offer suggestions to reduce the risk of Vaux's Swift mortality caused by operating chimneys and illustrate how community involvement can contribute to mortality reduction.