This fall, nature enthusiasts from across the Southland are flocking to a downtown parking structure to watch a rare spectacle in the sky overhead. At dusk, tens of thousands of migrating Vaux’s Swifts gather above an historic brick chimney. When a couple of birds finally take the plunge, the rest of the flock literally pours down the chimney and disappears for the night. This “swoop” of swifts is a rare treat, even rarer still in the urban environment of downtown Los Angeles.

“This is one of the more amazing things you’ll ever see in nature – and it’s all the more amazing because it’s taking place in one of the most urban environments in California,” said Jeff Chapman, director of the nearby Audubon Center at Debs Park.

Vaux’s Swifts are small, cigar-shaped birds that migrate south in huge flocks, often roosting in old chimneys and hollowed out trees along the way. A few years ago, the swifts began using an unused chimney on the roof of the Chester Williams Building on the corner of 5th and Broadway.

The birds will continue to roost in the Chester Williams Building for a couple of weeks, and anyone can go watch. The Audubon Center at Debs Park is hosting viewing on Friday, Sept. 21 and Sept. 28, on the top floor of the Joe’s Auto Park  at 440 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Parking is $3.

Audubon Staff and volunteers will be on site to share information, binoculars, and arts & crafts. All ages are welcome. Bring a picnic, binoculars if you have them, and something to sit on.

“If you think you’ve seen everything in downtown Los Angeles, you’ve never seen anything like this,” said Chapman.

About the Audubon Center at Debs Park 

Founded in 2003, the Audubon Center at Debs Park is dedicated to connecting the communities of Northeast Los Angeles with birds and nature. More information is available at www.audubondebspark.org.