Empty Nest

Day 207: This is a sadness. For the first time in all the years I've lived here, the House of Chirp has not been occupied. The swallows have not returned. By this time of year, I should be seeing dozens swooping and diving, perching on wires, raising families. I have seen only seven or eight, and never more than four at a time, and those only on three or four days. What has happened? Have they succumbed to avian influenza ("bird flu")? Were they caught in the fires which occurred during their late-summer migration south? Has global warming altered their range? Whatever the reason, they are not here, and if I needed proof that the world is coming to an end, this would do it. The nest is empty, and so is my heart.

Now Available For Occupancy

Day 156: I have had a lot on my plate lately, and hanging up the swallow houses had entirely slipped my mind even though I'd cleaned them thoroughly when I took them down last fall: simple task, five minutes max, and something I normally do around March 1. Yesterday morning (St. Patrick's Day), I happened to be looking out the kitchen window just as a prospective renter swooped up under the eaves, a few days early for either Violet Greens or Tree Swallows to my yard. He/she did a double-take, made a second dismayed pass, puzzled by the absence of familiar accommodations. Realizing that I'd neglected my little avian friends' needs, I darted out the door to remedy the issue. Pussywillow Cottage and the House of Chirp are now available for occupancy!