As August drew to a close the swallows started to line up on the wires across the road from the house. Is it my imagination or are there many fewer than in previous years? They have clearly not had a good year and have suffered greatly from our exceptionally hot and dry summer. There are worldwide concerns about declining swallow populations with the main reasons being put down to climate change and farming practices, particularly in areas where the birds over winter in Africa.
On the other hand, our house martins have had a really good year and, for the first time, have raised two broods, the second of which should fledge by the middle of September. Many have already departed and so these new youngsters will have to find their own way to their winter quarters.
Earlier in the year swift nesting boxes were installed in several local churches including our own and recordings of swifts screaming played back. Not everyone appreciated this, as some who lived near the church will attest, but it seems to have worked, as several birds were drawn in by these recordings. When the boxes were checked on the 21 July there were two well grown chicks in one box and another single adult bird resting in another. What a heart-warming success story, and one that augers well for next year.
For me these birds are the true heralds of summer, usually arriving here in Devon in the first week of May. They only stay long enough to breed, as the return migration begins in late July. It is truly amazing that these birds will fly thousands of miles to breed here in Payhembury and remain for such a short time.
I recently spotted a large plant of Himalayan Balsam growing by the stream. For some folk this is quite an attractive plant, growing to more than 6’ with pretty pink-white flowers, which the bees love. This plant species, however, is incredibly invasive and whenever seen should be pulled up and sent to landfill, as we do not want it seeding into our waterways. I would suggest that you do not compost it and keep an eye out next year.
The project to record all the flora and fauna for the parish continues apace, although the number of new plant species has diminished greatly as we enter autumn. So, please don’t forget to let me have your feedback.
Paul 841696
