Swallows in action

[Kittiwake]

Some of you may remember that I've been documenting the Swallows nesting outside my kitchen door, between the house and garage. All five eggs hatched but unfortunately we lost 2 chicks after a week or two - I'd been staying away while they were nestlings so that they didn't get disturbed in any way. Now I wish I'd popped round for a look. I did read that unmated males can pull chicks out of a nest and I did see more than 2 adults going in several times.

Anyway, the remaining 3 chicks have continued to do well and have now learnt to fly. Here's a pic from a couple of days ago:



They have been gathering together with other juvenile Swallows today and seem to be learning group flying techniques. I counted over 20 young Swallows on the overhead cable.

[Jonners]

What a lovely photo Kittiwake. I hope you continue to enjoy them for a while yet. I wonder whether they will have another brood now. When we visited North Yorkshire last August, there were a pair nesting then with eggs in their nest, so you never know. Oh, and that's a super pic for your avatar too

[Kittiwake]

Thanks Jonners!

Yes, I think they may well try for another brood in the same nest. There was also evidence of a further nestbuilding attempt - on one of the horizontal strengthening bars on the wooden gate itself! They may have abandoned it though, as the ledge is no more than an inch deep and it lower than head height. Will keep watching, as you say.

[Sledge]

Brilliant pic. That would win prizes.

[Kittiwake]

Thanks Sledge.

Good news - had a look in the nest earlier and they've gone for a second brood! Nest relined with new feathers and four new eggs take pride of place.

[rossy]

good to see them having a second clutch, hope they all hatch, keep us posted, rossy