Bird City

​The Whitewater Urban Forestry Commission (UFC) is committed to protecting local bird populations, especially Purple Martins and Chimney Swifts, both of which are experiencing population declines. In addition to habitat support, the UFC works to educate the public about these species and the importance of conservation, helping the community better understand and appreciate the role these birds play in our ecosystem.

 

To help Purple Martins thrive, volunteer “landlords” maintain successful martin houses at Tripp Lake, Clay Street Nature Park, and the Arboretum at Starin Park. These nesting sites provide safe places for the birds to raise their young each summer.

 

The Urban Forestry Commission also discovered that the Whitewater Middle School chimney serves as an important roosting site for hundreds of Chimney Swifts each late summer, just before their long migration to the Andes in South America. To celebrate this natural phenomenon, Whitewater hosted its first official Swift Night Out in 2025. The event, which featured a food truck, drew 75 community members who gathered to watch the breathtaking sight of swifts spiraling into the school chimney at dusk. Watching hundreds of Chimney Swifts descend together is truly one of nature’s great spectacles.

 

The city is also officially listed with the Wisconsin DNR Swift Working Group for recognized roosting chimneys statewide.

Whitewater’s efforts to support birds have helped earn recognition as a Wisconsin Bird City community.

 

Volunteers and contributors are always welcome to join in this important work.

Contact:
Kevin Boehm
Director of Parks and Recreation
kboehm@whitewater-wi.gov