We had some pretty heavy rain today and it has brought down the house martin nest in the eaves of our house. I spent a harrowing 30 minutes or so watching the 5 birds swooping up to where the nest used to be, trying to land. There is sufficient left for one to perch but not the whole family.

This is the second brood of the year by this pair.... I guess the first have already gone.

I an totally amazed that they were still here in October though. I'm sure that all the martins in the area have left way earlier in previous years. Maybe someone more knowlegable regarding migrating birds can throw some light on this.

I hope they manage their long journey south safely and come to rebuild next year, despite the droppings on our windows !

I'd have thought most people would've been glad to see the back of them!

A little temporary mess on the windows is a small price to pay to have these lovely birds nesting with you in all honesty.

They are nowhere to be seen today. On their way to Africa I hope.