Homecoming: The Swallows Return
Initially, I thought, "Oh crikey, there will be ructions here."
I just had to dedicate a space here for the beautiful swallows that grace us with their presence every summer. These extraordinary birds captivate me, and come April, the first thing I do each morning is peek out of the garden room windows, hoping to see them perched on our electricity cable. This year, they arrived a bit later than usual, but their punctuality is typically remarkable. This phenomenon fascinates scientists and nature lovers alike, as these small birds undertake epic migrations spanning thousands of miles with pinpoint accuracy.
The swallows’ journey is demanding, and fraught with natural hazards and unpredictable weather. Yet, these resilient birds manage to navigate vast distances, often covering more than 6,000 miles. The swallows' journey is a testament to their endurance and instinct, honed by eras of evolution.
Curiosity Gets the Better of Me
I vividly remember our first year here. I noticed these birds frequently flying in and out of our outhouse, now my hen house. Curiosity got the better of me, so I cautiously investigated. Despite initially finding nothing, their repeated visits piqued my interest. One evening, I crouched in the corner of the outhouse, patiently waiting to catch them in the act. As I looked up, I saw a nest perched on top of the electricity box. I was ecstatic! Unlike any nest I’d seen before, it was a work of art made from tiny bits of mud squashed together.
I learned that swallows build their nests from mud, creating a sturdy, cup-shaped structure. They gather the mud in their beak, often mixing it with grass, and painstakingly construct their nests over several days. This technique ensures a strong home and keeps their eggs and chicks safe from predators and harsh weather.
Ever since that discovery, I’ve left their nest undisturbed. Despite the challenges swallows face from habitat loss, climate change, and pollution, they continue to return to our garden each year. This is a testament to their resilience and hopefully, a sign that I’m a good host. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these remarkable birds and their incredible journeys, I’m more than happy to do everything I can to help.
Squatters Rights in Bird World
When we adopted the hens, we turned the swallows outhouse into their home. It was perfect: spacious, with different levels and a secure outdoor section for them to roam. It had once been used as a kennel for working dogs, but my pampered pups would never take to outdoor life, nor would I entertain the idea, so it became a hen house. However, it wasn’t me or my hens that the swallows had to worry about evicting them.
This year, before the swallows returned, the wrens took advantage and built a nest on top of the swallows' original nest—squatters' rights in the bird world, I suppose. Initially, I thought, "Oh crikey, there will be ructions here." I monitored the wrens' nest and noticed they seemed to build the nest and abandon it. It must have been one of their decoy nests, a clever tactic to deter predators. I decided to let nature take its course, just in case I was wrong and the nest was in use.
Giving up Hope
One of the most awe-inspiring aspects of swallow migration is their return to the same nesting sites year after year. Swallows are known for their strong site fidelity, often returning to the exact same nest or one nearby. This behaviour is driven by several factors: successful breeding, social bonds, and learned behaviour.
As we progressed through April, I started to think that perhaps they wouldn’t return this year. We were two weeks into the month with no sign of them. Just as I had given up hope, I came down early one morning and made my way to the garden room, coffee in hand, I wanted to check for them one more time. Well, hello! There they were, two beautiful swallows perched on the electricity cable having a heated conversation between themselves. I opened the back door and said, “Hey! You took your time”, then I put down my coffee and ran upstairs to get dressed, I had to be quick because I couldn’t miss them discovering the wrens’ new build.
In some cultures, swallows are considered harbingers of good luck and prosperity. Their return is celebrated with festivals, such as the famous Swallows Day Parade in San Juan Capistrano, California, which commemorates the annual return of cliff swallows to the Mission San Juan Capistrano.
Unfortunately, I hadn’t arranged a festival or a magnificent homecoming for them. Instead, I pulled up my favourite garden chair and watched in anticipation as the swallows explored their old nesting site. Back and forth they flew, chattering to each other the entire time. It was delightful, I felt a sense of peace watching them go about their day like normality had been restored.
Prepare to Smile
To my surprise, the swallows didn’t relocate or destroy the wrens’ nest; alternatively, they built themselves an extension. The sight of three nests built to perfection on the electricity box made me smile – I’ll have to start charging them rent at this rate! Brace yourself, this next photograph will make your heart burst.
Despite their late arrival and the housing dilemma, this year has been another successful summer for our swallow parents. As you can see, the brood is healthy, clearly outgrowing the nest, and ready to fly.
Crazy Bird Lady
Over the years, these swallows have become accustomed to me. Initially, they weren’t thrilled about sharing their space with me and the hens, often flying into my hair each time I entered the outhouse. Now, they seem to know me as the crazy bird lady who potters in and out of their summer home, creating a safe space for their young, and acting as the general housekeeper - they’re very messy.
Observing these agile birds building nests and raising their young is a reminder of the intricate and wondrous workings of nature. It inspires awe and reverence for the resilience and navigational excellence of these small yet mighty travellers.
So, the next time you see a swallow darting through the sky, take a moment to appreciate the marvel of its journey and the ancient instincts guiding it home. Upon their return, swallows bring a timeless story of perseverance, navigation, and the enduring bond between creatures and their homes.
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I envy their resilience and grace!
Cute, I love this story ♥