The Return of the Barn Swallows 2011

By Angie Wilken

What started out as a near perfect afternoon with overcast skies had all the makings of a successful event. Spectators began arriving from as early as 3pm. and arrive they did, cars pored into the park and many visitors arrived to witness the opening of the Barn Swallow season. We had visitors from Great Britain, Howick, Kloof, JHB, yellowwood Park, Umkomaas, Blythedale Beach just to mention a few.

At 4.10pm the clouds thickened and rain began to fall, spectators put on rain coats and umbrellas appeared. People stopped arriving and many left due to the weather but then they were those who braved it regardless.

Visibility was poor and binoculars were needed but eventually the Barn Swallows did arrive at 6.15pm and in great number they were. It was a short but satisfying display and the spectators who saw were amazed. It was the worst evening ever for viewing Barn Swallows.
Reports were received that the Barn Swallows prior to displaying were seen in huge numbers on the telephone wires along the road leading out of Mount Moreland. The early spectator leavers created a traffic jam on the way out as all stopped to witness this mass gathering.

It is noted that the Barn Swallows arrival this year is somewhat delayed possibly due to unusual weather, cold snaps and late rainfall.

Thank you to all who came and supported this event