Donate to NWAAS

Chimney Swift Tower at Mt. Sequoyah

The Northwest Arkansas Audubon Society is raising $5,000 to install a Chimney Swift tower and an array of bird feeders at Mt. Sequoyah in Fayetteville. The swift tower will be dedicated to the memory of Dr. Doug James, longtime ornithology professor at the University of Arkansas, whose goal of building a Chimney Swift tower was one of his priorities as NWAAS president.

The Chimney Swift tower will be designed and built by Kelly Mulhollan and architect Michael Cockram of Bowerbird Designs — the team behind the Mulhollan Waterfowl Blind at Lake Fayetteville. These towers mimic the mature hollow trees and old masonry chimneys that swifts depend on for roosting and nesting. Research shows swifts readily adapt to well-placed towers.

Alongside the tower, an array of feeders offering different types of food will be placed in habitat suited to the birds and to those who enjoy watching them. Kelly and Donna Mulhollan bring years of experience managing feeding stations and will oversee this part of the project.

Mt. Sequoyah already offers exceptional bird habitat — the Center grounds, Skyline Drive, and nearly 100 forested acres of Mt. Sequoyah Woods on the east slope. These NWAAS projects, approved by Mt. Sequoyah Center, will add to those existing strengths and provide rich educational opportunities for the community.

The $5,000 goal covers all project costs, including a contingency for unexpected expenses and a full first year of bird feed.

Share this donation link to help us reach our goal: https://bit.ly/swift-tower