Small, fast, and elegant, the barn swallow is the epitome of aerodynamics, swooping close to the ground to catch small flying insects. Take a walk in the early morning or at dusk to watch them hunt as they swoop, dive, and drop from the sky!
In May of 2026, student Ava Phipps was watching a group fly along the lake to catch juvenile mosquitoes when she noticed something peculiar. A few of the birds were taking breaks to land on the muddy bank of Kingswood Lakes Island and grab mud and grass. Many species of swallows build their own nests made out of clay, spit, and dirt. These mud “cups” will provide shelter and a safe place for hatchlings to grow. On campus, go to the CIS’s parking lot or look under KW lakes bridge to observe these little architects building homes!
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