Barn Swallows

The back cover of the Mass Audubon Society Sanctuary newsletter always has an outdoor almanac with important dates for nature lovers.  The April 29th entry says:  "Brown thrashers, towhees, house wrens, barn swallows, and chimney swifts return."

Coincidentally, I saw my first Barn Swallows this morning, April 29th, at Hopkinton State Park!  I realized I was near their nest when one of them flew directly towards my head, calling out warnings as it approached.  I actually ducked!  Later, I spotted their nesting box.  I hope they are successful.  It's right in the heart of a very busy area.

 Barn Swallow #1

Barn Swallow #2 (bad lighting)

When I returned home, the local birds were all making a lot more noise than usual.  I walked out of the garage to see if I could determine the cause and noticed a Turkey Vulture perched on the chimney of our neighbor's home.  Hope they are OK!!!!  That's the first time I've ever seen a Turkey Vulture on someone's house!

Turkey Vulture