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In this episode of Rarefied, host Meredith Meeker spotlights the Chimney Swift, a bird known for its aerial acrobatics and unique nesting habits. Despite their global security, Chimney Swifts face vulnerability and imperilment across Canada. Meredith is joined by experts Gabriel Evans Cook, Ontario's aerial insectivore biologist, and Gwendolyn Clark, coordinator of the Chimney Swift Chimney Restoration Fund at Birds Canada. They discuss the Chimney Swift's adaptation to urban environments, the threats they face, and the initiatives in place to conserve their habitat. This episode emphasizes the integral role of citizen science and community engagement in species conservation.

www.birdscanada.org/about-us/funding-opportunities/chimney-swift-fund

www.birdscanada.org/bird-science/swiftwatch

https://birdgardens.ca/planning-your-garden/

00:00 Introduction to Rarefied Podcast

00:34 Meet the Chimney Swift

00:55 Personal Birding Journey

01:45 Chimney Swift Conservation Efforts

01:56 Introduction of Guests

03:55 Chimney Swift Characteristics

05:28 Chimney Swift Habitat and Adaptation

08:43 Chimney Swift Restoration Fund

14:34 Threats to Chimney Swifts

17:55 Conservation Actions and Citizen Science

22:20 How You Can Help

26:53 Gardening for Birds

28:33 A Different Birding Season

28:47 The Importance of Conservation

30:18 Why Care About Chimney Swifts?

31:09 Urban Wildlife and Human Connection

36:13 Conservation Efforts and Success Stories

41:20 Fieldwork Adventures and Fun Stories

44:03 Chimney Swifts' Unique Traits and Behaviors

48:19 Final Thoughts and Surprising Facts

53:10 Conclusion and Call to Action