The Weekly Chirp: Empty Nesters, Barn Swallows

Up under the eves of my back porch is a Barn Swallow nest. You would not even know it is there unless you see or hear activity.  The parents are often swooping in and out with insect morsels for their young.  They don't dive bomb me, but there certainly is a lot of swooshing about and various shrieks and calls when I enter the small porch which is apparently not big enough for all of us!  And the little chicks are so adorable, with their wide beaks assimilating a giant smile as they look over the nest.  Seriously, how many birds are in there? 

 Besides pointing out how cute they are and how beneficial they can be with insect control, many people see these birds as a nuisance. The main reason people do not want these nests is aesthetic.  Yes, they poop, and if there is a large colony of nests, it can be unsightly and possibly stinky.    

Did you know it is against the law to knock down a swallow nest until after the breeding season?  That's right!  The Migratory Bird Treaty Act passed in 1918 prohibits the harassment of the birds and the destruction of their nests including the contents of their nests.  And, this is not just regarding swallows. It is a State and Federal law protecting all non-game and non-invasive species. If you see them as pests,  here’s what you can do…..

*Most swallows are monogamous and will return to the same nest year after year, often raising two clutches within the breeding season. They come to us in early spring and start creating the perfect nest for their anticipated families.  As the adults start assembling the straw and mud concoction, you can start knocking down as they build that down.  If you continue to thwart their efforts, they may soon give up and look for another idyllic family location.  However, once the nest is built, you are stuck with them for many months.  So, now you may as well enjoy the show.  

*After their confirmed departure in the fall, you can knock the nest down, but be sure to wear gloves and a mask due to the remnants of fecal matter and live parasites.  
*To keep them away from an area that seems to draw their attention year after year, you can hang plants, strips of plastic wire or foil, or feed your cat just under that special spot!