First ringing session of the season at Umzumbe Swallow roost ***UPDATED***

text by Andy Ruffle, photos by Andrew Pickles

Favourable weather Monday afternoon (14th Nov 2011) meant Andrew & Ivan Pickles were able to attempt their first ringing session of Barn Swallows at the Umzumbe Roost. The nets were up by 1730 and it wasn't long before barnies could be seen feeding over the adjacent sugar cane, before heading off to roost.

A total of 22 Barn Swallows (11 adults and 11 juveniles) were netted plus two Brown-throated Martins. Interestingly, the Brown-throated Martins proved to be one of each form- the normal form and the all brown underparts form. Unfortunately, no re-captures this time, but who knows what the rest of the season will reveal.

Brown-throated Martin dark form

Brown-throated Martin dark form

Brown-throated Martin pale form

Ringing of the Barn Swallows can be a last minute decision due to the unpredictable south coast weather, but if you would like to be notified about these sessions please let Andy Ruffle know.

There’s no better way of finishing a hectic day than relaxing watching the swallows as the sun goes down.