At the heart of Moncus Park, a new structure has risen that is not just a beautiful addition to the landscape but a crucial sanctuary for the chimney swift. These dynamic birds, known for their aerial acrobatics, now enjoy a specially designed tower built by our park staff. It mimics traditional chimneys, providing a safe place for nesting and roosting.

Chimney swifts spend most of their time in the air, skillfully catching insects. As natural hollow trees become scarce due to deforestation, these birds have adapted to urban environments by nesting in chimneys. Our tower at Moncus Park is designed to meet these specific needs, offering a secure environment to support their populations.

Chimney swifts are important for controlling insect populations, eating large numbers of mosquitoes, gnats, and other pests. Supporting these birds enhances local biodiversity and promotes a healthier ecosystem. With their habitats under threat, conservation efforts are more important than ever.

The tower also doubles as a piece of art, featuring a vibrant mural by local artist Kristie Mayeaux Spotswood, which showcases the native plants of the Coastal Prairie – Goldenrod, Rattlesnake Master, Blazing Star, and Little Blue Stem. This not only beautifies the park but also educates visitors about local ecosystems.

One of the highlights of visiting the park is seeing the chimney swifts’ spectacular dusk ritual, where they swirl into the tower to roost for the night. This is a must-see for anyone interested in birds or nature.

We invite everyone to Moncus Park to see this incredible tower and learn more about chimney swifts and how we can help protect them. Observing these birds offers a chance to see conservation in action and understand the impact of our efforts to support local wildlife.