Barn Swallow

No summer would be complete without one of our most graceful hirundines - barn swallow (Hirundo rustica).

The adult swallow is steel-blue above with greenish gloss on the wings and tail; most of the tail feathers have an oval white spot.  The forehead and throat are rich chestnut.  The bill and legs are black and sexes are similar.

The twittering song is heard throughout the summer stay with us and birds sing on the wing and when perched.

Flies and other winged insects are its food of choice and even large butterflies and day flying moths will be taken.  The best time to observe their feeding behaviour is, ironically, when it is wet and windy because birds will come down low to catch their prey.

Swallows can be found almost anywhere from farms to the suburbs and often over water.  Late summer is the best time to see them as they gather on telephone wires and fences in large groups, young and adult birds, getting ready for the departure to warmer climes.

High Summer Flower

Just a few more high summer flowers, one of which is comfrey (Symphytum officinale).

Comfrey is a robust hairy perennial, 60-90cm. high, with broad lanceolate leaves.  Flowers are bell-like and may be white, cream, blue, mauve, purple or pink.

The habitat is widespread and common along river banks and streams. 

"Symphytum" is derived from the Greek "sympho", to heal or unite, and alludes to the plant's use in medicine in the past in the treatment of healing bones.

Other names for comfrey are boneset, knitbone, blackwort and ass ear, the later from the shape of the leaves.

Alder

Bindweed

Bramble

Comfrey