Denise Campbell (@FDCTamu)

10 years ago a pair of barn-swallows built a nest on top of the front porch light. They returned and raised 2 batches of offspring each year, until the Polar Vortex. They failed to return from their winter vacation in Mexico until this year, when they busily rebuilt their nest (which flycatchers used during their absence). These migratory birds are mosquito eating machines, and very much appreciated around here; especially since Texas now has a monsoon season, the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. A few days ago the fledglings took their first flight, encouraged by their parents and nearby relatives, who built a nest under the eaves. Lots of swooping through the porch, past the nest, trying to coax the fledglings to take the plunge. Mama kept a watchful eye on the entire affair. Finally, the fledglings got up the courage and flew to the ground, then up onto the railings. Nature’s pest control system has multiplied.