Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Tree Swallows in birdhouse on deck

The Tree Swallows are using the birdhouse on the deck.
Jimmy found the birdhouse out in his shop and just placed it on the deck, next thing we knew the Bluebirds and Tree Swallows were checking it out. One day while we were watching a Tree Swallow went in the house and a Bluebird was hanging on the outside. I tried to capture a photo of the 2 looking at each other, but was not able to. The Bluebird flew off, then out came the Tree Swallow.

This sheppard's hook is real close to the deck,

and one of them stays on it most of the time,

the other one in the birdhouse.

This photo the Tree Swallow is perched right in front of the birdhouse.
They have gotten very used to us walking right past the birdhouse.
I talk to them as I walk all the way around the birdhouse. On Sunday afternoon I went out there with a fly swatter in my hand and shooed a wasp away from the birdhouse. The Tree Swallow just watched my every move, but never flew, or retreated back inside.
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17 comments:

Susie said...

You sure captured some beautiful pictures Leedra. I have seen some of these birds flying around our neighborhood and couldn't remember the name of them. Thanks for letting me know.

Clara....in TN said...

You have those birds captivated! Beautiful!

troutbirder said...

Great shots. Housing shortage in the neighborhood?

Tina said...

Wow, what a brave little bird..to stay put when a woman approaches with a fly swatter..lol!
Tree swallows are really fun to watch fly..they dart in and out of branches so fast..you wonder how they don't crash once in a while!!
Great pictures...love that close up.. he sure was keeping his eye on you!

Betsy Banks Adams said...

Hi Leedra, Your tree Swallow is gorgeous. I don't think I've ever seen one. Love the colors!

Keep us posted about the little family. Soon you may have Swallow babies. Wouldn't that be neat???

Have a great and wonderful day.
Hugs,
Betsy

Leedra said...

Betsy - Found out this morning I have a new brood of Bluebirds started. Could only see 3 eggs but I wasn't quite talk enough, so there could have already been 4. They moved to a different house than they used the first time. It is so funny to watch the Bluebirds and Tree Swallows switch back and forth using the birdhouses. Tree Swallows are here because of the wide open space, not many trees. They love to fly and catch the insects. I also have Eastern Kingbird Flycatchers for the same reason.

Ruth's Photo Blog said...

You have some great shot of the Tree Swallows.They seem to be more trusting than some birds.
Blessings,Ruth

Unknown said...

These are just beautiful. I love the 3rd picture. You really captured great color on this tree swallow.

George said...

Great captures of the Tree Swallows.

DeniseinVA said...

They're such a delightful little bird and how lovely that you have them right on your deck. Great images Leedra.

Shelley said...

You are becoming quite the landlord! I think you need more birdhouses! These tree swallow photos were excellent - like the one of him peeking his head out of his new home.

Connie said...

I am so fond of swallows - these are wonderful photos.

Heidi said...

They sit still for you? I'm impressed!

Mary C said...

Impressive photos, Leedra. I wonder if the tree swallow appreciated your chasing the wasp away. I wonder if those birds, knowing they are insect eaters, ever catch bees of any sort.

Leedra said...

Mary C - I am not sure the Tree Swallow was aware the wasp was around. It was trying to get in the back opening of the birdhouse. I was afraid I was going to witness a wresting match on the inside of the birdhouse if I didn't get the Wasp to leave. You have started the curious minds...do they capture Wasp and Bees in flight?

Girl Tornado said...

Amazing, how they trust you already. That last shot of the bird peeking out of the birdhouse is marvelous!

Mary said...

Just beautiful! I love that last shot looking out the door :-)

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