More Welcome Swallows

Although the birds of New Zealand do not generally compare in brilliance of hue as those of, say, Australia there are some very beautiful and exceptionally interesting ones.  For me one of the loveliest is the Welcome Swallow.  I have blogged a number of times on this joyful bird: see this list at Postvorta.

They are exceptionally fast and not in the least bit afraid of coming within a few feet of a person to catch some tasty insect morsels attracted by the carbon dioxide emitted in our breath or perhaps the blood on which they like to feed!  I've only managed to capture them in flight on one trip to Miranda.

When I was at Pauline's there were some youngsters nearby and I managed to get one sitting on a post not far away (but through a window).  They may not be my best Welcome Swallow photos but they are close runners in the cuteness stakes.

Welcome Swallows

A pair of Welcome Swallows were nesting in Judy's outside living room extension.  They were very reluctant to be photographed but over six days I managed to get two photos, one of which was useable.  I am always fascinated by nests.  I think that the skill required to build a nest like this using only a beak (and a tiny one at that) is remarkable.

The Tournament is Over

The Tournament is over and my life should now return to what passes for normality. Mind you I have absolutely no idea what constitutes normality ( or 'normalcy' as Simply Heather blogs about). It's been seven days of concentrated physical and mental effort from 0830 every morning until late afternoon or early evening. I once read that one can walk 7 k during an afternoon of croquet. Given that some of the players are in their 80s that's not bad going.

Mike has returned this evening to Gisborne and The Cottage now feels empty. After two weeks of guests it seems quite odd.

There is lots to catch up on and it may take me a day or two to get back into the swing of things: especially as I have entertaining to catch up on, friends to catch up with and Club competition games to play in both Golf and Association Croquet. But, hey, the time will pass so quickly and, if I'm honest, I don't want it to. People keep reminding me that I will be going off to Lewis for my Scottish life in 4 weeks. Oh how the time doth fly.

The Welcome Swallows fly round the lawns constantly and one was kind enough to sit on one of the hoops for long enough for me to get his picture. They are such wonderful companions on the lawns although if one flies within a few feet when one is addressing the ball or trying to take a shot it can be a bit of a problem.