Swift Night Out Austin’s Dusk “Swift Tornado” at JJ Pickle (with Travis Audubon)

Celebrate the Chimney Swift migration with Travis Audubon! At dusk, hundreds of these tiny aerial acrobats spiral into their roost chimney after a day of feasting on insects, an unforgettable wildlife show right here in Austin.

Meet, mingle, and learn about Chimney Swifts and their urban roosts.
Watch the evening “swift tornado” as the birds drop into the chimney at dusk.

Optional: help tally swifts as part of Travis Audubon’s community science effort.

Directions & parking (important)
Enter Pickle Campus from Burnet Rd by turning onto Read Granberry Trail.
The Vertebrate Paleontology Lab is the last building on the right.
Paid parking is required. Kiosks are just to the right as you enter campus and another is below the big water tower.
The nearest lot is #216 (see event map pin)

Accessibility: Accessible parking is on the south side of the VPL; a ramp provides access to the entrance and restrooms inside.

What to bring
Lawn chair or picnic blanket
Water and light snacks
Binoculars (optional but fun!)
Bug spray / hat
Friends, family, and anyone who loves nature 🐦

Good to know
Family-friendly and beginner-friendly—no experience needed.
Please keep voices low as the swifts gather; we want them to feel safe entering the roost.

Weather: If heavy rain or lightning threatens visibility, we’ll post an update in the event comments.

Questions
For program details about Swift Night Out, contact Caley Zuzula, Program Manager (Travis Audubon) at caley@travisaudubon.org.