Tree Swallows!

Tree swallows are among the first migratory birds to return to this part of Massachusetts in the spring to begin scouting nesting sites–tree cavities and nest boxes–right away. They are easily identified by their stunning, iridescent blue bodies and white bellies, and they exude personality. They are fast and nimble fliers, and during the fall migration, they can gather in the hundreds to load up on insects before their long journey. Tree swallows are small and fast in flight, so they are a real challenge to photograph in the air (you’ll notice I don’t have many), but they are pretty human-tolerant, and they don’t mind sitting still for a photo.