While walking along the bike and running path beside the lake at Peace Valley Park, I was surprised to notice a Tree Swallow nestling perched right on the edge of a natural tree cavity—just a few feet from the trail. Several adult Tree Swallows were actively circling the tree, and it quickly became clear that I had stumbled upon a front-row seat to a busy feeding station. I set up my tripod on the opposite side of the path and quietly recorded this fascinating behavior from only about twelve feet away—far closer than I had ever experienced before. Each time an adult approached, the nestling threw its head back and opened its mouth wide, calling eagerly in a scene that was both endearing and a little humorous. One after another, adults arrived with food and gently placed it directly into the youngster's open bill. What made the moment even more special was watching passersby stop when I pointed out the activity, sharing in the wonder of this intimate glimpse into the daily life of Tree Swallows.
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