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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 ̽����ѡ 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 5^th and Broadway.

The birds will continue to roost in the Chester Williams Building for a couple of weeks, and anyone can go watch. The ̽����ѡ 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.

̽����ѡ 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 ̽����ѡ Center at Debs Park 

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