Dive-Bombers

The nestlings are doing well, growing feathers and starting to open their eyes. They are noticeably larger each time I see them. The parents dive-bomb me as I check the nest, and even call in reinforcements. It is not unusual for six or more swallows to dive and snap their beaks as I check their nest. Soon these young birds will leave their nestbox and start exploring the park on their own. Tree Swallows are experts at flying upon leaving the nest, and will be able to catch their own food on the wing. Tree Swallows are insectivores and you will likely notice more of them swooping through the park in the next week or so. Over the course of their nesting, one family can consume up to 300,000 insects. Most of these are caught no more than 40 feet above the ground, which means while you are busy watching your kids play ball in the park, the swallows are busy snapping up the insects which might otherwise bite you. This is one reason it is important to help birds! Tree Swallows migrate south for the winter, some stopping in Florida, some going as far as Central America. Their migration will begin towards the end of summer. For now, enjoy these acrobatic fliers as they reduce the population of pesky insects.