Northern Rough-winged Swallow Chicks Relocated at Alameda Recapture Creek Project

During the month of June, part of our construction management team at the Alameda Creek Diversion Dam (ACDD) project relocated 5 adorable Northern Rough-winged swallow chicks.  The relocation of the chicks was done by lead biologist, Chris Pattison, with the assistance of another lead biologist, Matthew Bettelheim. Chris Pattison was the only biologist handling the baby chicks. The entire process was performed under a U.S. Fish and Wildlife (USFWS) relocation permit.

Lead biologist, Chris Pattison preparing to relocate the chicks

Rough-winged Swallow Chicks at ACDD Project

They were immediately transported to the Lindsay Wildlife Hospital for a full veterinarian examination.  All of the baby chicks passed their examinations and were then transferred to the Native Songbird Care and Conservation in Sebastopol, California.  Native Songbird Care and Conservation specializes in insectivorous birds. The chicks were reared until they were ready for release.

Northern Rough-Winged at ACDD project

A plain brown bird, Northern Rough-winged swallows are common across the United States in the summer. They are solitary and are usually seen singly or in a small group.  The bird gets its name “rough-winged” because their outer wings have small hooks or points.

See you around the valley!