A sure sign of spring in Leavenworth is the return of the swallows, usually in April. They are long-distance migrants, spending each winter as far south as the tip of South America. Although there are 5 species found in our area, the barn swallow is the only one wearing a “swallow-tail.” They have slender pointed wings that allow them to fly gracefully through the sky, turning and diving to catch the insects that make up the majority of their food.

Barn swallows build their nests out of mud and grass, plastered to a cliff face, a building or tucked under a bridge. If you raft down the Wenatchee River, look for swallow nests when you pass under a bridge. These “bird condos” may be used year after year, housing the swallows that soar over the river, eating those pesky mosquitoes.

Barn swallows are a beautiful deep iridescent blue, which made them popular for decorating ladies’ hats. The Audubon Society was founded in protest of killing birds like these for decoration, and they are currently protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. It is now illegal to wear swallow feathers.