OOS Diversity and Inclusion Statement

The Ohio Ornithological Society supports diversity, equity, and inclusiveness as pillars for healthy communities and the people who live in them. Our organization believes that a more diverse and inclusive community strengthens our mission of providing a statewide birding network that unites people of all interests, abilities, and identities (including but not limited to gender, race, ethnicity, religion, nationality, and sexual orientation) to come together for the enjoyment of, education about, and conservation of Ohio’s wild birds.

The Ohio Ornithological Society aspires to help build a stronger and more vibrant community among Ohio’s birders that better reflects the diverse cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences of each unique person, who has a contribution to make to our statewide birding network.

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News & Events

The Importance of Chimney Swift ConservationChimney_swift

Chimney Swifts have declined by over 50% in just the last 40 years. Chimney Swifts can be helped by making chimneys accessible for the birds or by building Chimney Swift Towers – specially designed nesting/roosting towers.
 
WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP
 
Plant native trees, shrubs, flowers and grasses that attract more insects than non-native plants. Chimney Swifts feed exclusively on flying insects which are crucial during the breeding season.
Investigate an alternative venting system if you are converting a furnace or hot water heater to gas, leaving the chimney unlined and uncapped for the swifts.
Work with an experienced chimney sweep company that can speak to the issue of Chimney Swift conservation and chimney maintenance.
Encourage your neighborhood parks, schools, and businesses to build chimney swift towers.
Work with local conservation groups to raise awareness of the need for uncapped chimneys for Chimney Swift conservation.