A rare sight unfolded at UNC Chapel Hill’s McCorkle Place on Wednesday as thousands of chimney swifts took shelter in the iconic Davie Poplar tree. Normally roosting in chimneys, the birds circled the 400-year-old tree before diving into its hollow trunk at dusk, much to the amazement of gathered spectators. Birdwatchers and volunteers brought binoculars and clipboards to witness the event, which many said hasn’t been seen in centuries. This unexpected roosting marks a significant moment for wildlife enthusiasts, as the swifts are usually seen in manmade structures.

The event offered a close-up view of the birds’ migration behavior, as they gather nightly in tight spaces for warmth while heading south for the winter. For many, including seasoned birdwatchers, the sight of swifts using an old-growth tree was an extraordinary experience not to be missed. The phenomenon has drawn attention from wildlife advocates who are increasingly concerned about the decline in chimney swift populations due to habitat loss.