Our swallows have all departed now, winging their way south to insect-laden areas of Central and South America, where they will remain until their migratory urges impel them to head north again next spring.
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| Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica |
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| Northern Rough-winged Swallow Stelgidopterix serripennis |
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| American Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon pyrrhonota |
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| Purple Martin Progne subis |
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| Tree Swallow Tachycineta bicolor
The following poem, which I remember from the distant days of my childhood studying English literature, evokes the spirit of migration, but we remain secure in the knowledge that the swallows will return just as surely as spring will awaken from winter's icy grip. May we live to see them again.
The Last Swallow
The robin whistles again. Day's arches narrow.
Tender and quiet skies lighten the withering flowers.
The dark of winter must come.....But that tiny arrow,
Circuiting high in the blue - the year's last swallow
Knows where the coast of far mysterious sun-wild Africa lours.
WALTER DE LA MER
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