Around this time most of our summer migrant birds are heading south for warmer weather and more insects. Most swifts will have gone now to return here at the end of April or the start of May next year.
Today I saw a swallow and that may be the last this year. Some young birds may be around for a few weeks and it is just possible some may remain in South Devon and South Cornwall all year. Just a few may survive on the coast where there may be insects near seaweed all year. I once saw some swallows in South Devon on Dec 7th but that is very late. No, most are now gone to return next spring, at least gone from East Anglia. Some travel thousands of miles all the way to South Africa - a truly remarkable journey - often returning to the very same next site they left. Quite remarkable.
The migration of birds is almost miraculous. I am sorry to see them leave but my heart is always glad when they return.
Of course, to some birds we are seen as warm! The Whooper and Bewick swans join us as do the fieldfares and redwings.
There is something good in every season.
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