Tree Swallows in the Bluebird Box

It was a huge disappointment when the Eastern Bluebirds that had nested in my box the last 5 years did not return there this Spring.  Fortunately, my disappointment was short lived.
When we returned from a short vacation in Georgia, I saw a blue bird fly out of the box. But, it wasn't an Eastern Bluebird. It was a Tree Swallow! I know that they will use nest boxes but I was skeptical that they would stay as the box is right off our neighborhood golf course cart path. So I waited until I saw them both leave the area, then I checked the box. Low and behold, the nest was complete with 2 eggs in it! And it was lined with several feathers; so sweet!

Over the next several days, the adults were busy.

3 more eggs were laid, bringing the total to 5 in the beautiful, feather lined nest. The feathers reminded me of a soft, baby blanket.

After a couple of weeks, were were aware that the eggs had hatched. The parents began bringing small insects into the box and removing fecal sacks (poo).

And we finally were able to see the babes at the box entry hole.

They grew really fast.

And the insects got bigger! Here is a dragonfly for lunch!

Then, they were almost ready to go!

 Shortly after this photo was taken, they all fledged the nest.

A happy occasion for the parents, but we will miss them. Such a joy to watch and learn. Maybe they will return next year!