PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – For decades, Portlanders have enjoyed the spectacle of tiny wings circling a chimney at Chapman Elementary School during the Vaux's Swifts annual fall migration.

This event typically kicks off at the start of September when temperatures begin to fall. But in 2024, the chimney in Northwest Portland was notably empty. The swifts also have yet to be spotted at the school this year.

So where are all the Vaux’s Swifts?

According to the Bird Alliance of Oregon, the answer is unclear. Conservation Director Joe Liebezeit told KOIN 6 News these birds can be fickle, and it is still possible that they could make their way back to Chapman this year.

“Birds change what they do. It can be hard for people to get used to that,” Liebezeit said. “They go where they want to go. Th

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