Barn swallows are the most abundant species of birds known as swallows, which have come to symbolize good luck and the coming of spring. Barn swallows use mud to construct open nests often in or on buildings, bridges, jetties and other structures.

 Both the male and female share the task of more than 1,000 mouthfuls of mud to the nest, then the female finishes the job by lining the inside of the new home with feathers and grass. Females lay from 3 to 9 eggs, which are white with brown spots. They are almost wholly insectivorous and include many flies, mosquitoes, gnats, and agricultural pests in their diet. Only 5 species breed in Europe.

     During the Easter holidays swallows had built a nest outside our door.

They thought that it was quiet, but when we came back they got a shock. There are four baby chicks now and we hope they will fly in a few days time.

 In a few weeks time they will have go back to Africa before it gets too cold here. The mother and father might leave them if they are not prepared for such a long journey.