Loose Screw

Two Swallows came to visit

Up from down Peru

But I wonder how is it

This is something they can do

 

Awfully smallish wings

And a smallish bod

Pretty skimpy package

From the birdie god

 

How come Eagles don’t make that trip

Ravens avoid it too

Are they smarter than the Swallow

Who seems to lack a screw

 

Or could it be our winters

Are kina hard to suffer through

Guess I’ll ask that little wonder

If it’s me that lacks a screw

 

Author's Note

An old poem resurrected to celebrate the return of my favorite birds, two of whom, re-nest each year, in a custom residence just outside our bedroom window.
They come early and unfortunately, leave early, but we always value their visit.

Reviews

[kentuck14]

Dave,
a delightful ditty . . . and a good question. When living in West Virginia out in the sticks used to see a lot of the swallow breed. Amazing how they just kept swooping around, catching those insects and always late afternoon, early evening. Maybe then the atmospheric conditions are just right for "swallowing' der bugs! Regards.
T.

[john l smith]

On one trip back through Oregon we stopped at a river overnight and there were at least a thousand (?) up and down the river catching bugs
Couldn't believe my eyes
Thanks 4 visit

[barleygirl]

What a delightful mix of interesting observations & playfulness! I always read authors notes first, so I was led to believe this might be one of your rare more-serious pieces. However, your wry wit shines as usual! I saw a documentary about little migrating birds -- they lose so much weight, they are at real risk of dying before they get to their destinations. Some do a USA stopover to fatten up for a week & then continue on to your neck of the woods. Your imagination is off the charts! You set these old neurons a'dancing, thinking about birds! (((HUGS))) Fondly, Margie

[john l smith]

we could be close to the limit of their northern range(?) because we only get 4 or 6 swallows returning (like clockwork) each year.
Only two nest with us and the others spread out
Possible sadness this year
Only three returned
First time in god knows how long we have not had at least 4
Much unhappiness here and we are not sure yet if we will have our regular pair, up beside our bedroom window
as sad as that is, it is always a joyous occasion to have a Barleygirl visit and almost offsets our swallow sadness
'Almost'
donchajusluvthespellchecker, huh!
donecha

[barleygirl]

I love my outdoor critters, but I have to admit I rarely get as attached as what you profess to be! One spring, two youthful bunnies visited my garden regularly. I keep my door open for the dogs & one of the bunnies came inside & hopped right over to me, sitting here at the computer! Who the hell needs to live in town? *wink! wink!* Love your shares, keep 'em comin'! Fondly, Margie

[john l smith]

A bunny with a brain.
U must be feedinit brain food
R bunnies R cute but R doggie wouldn't let R bunnies near R computer

[Pete]

nature is just full of wonders. i've often thought the same thing myself - how come i stay and tolerate the winter hybernating indoors while they go where it's warmer and return when winter releases its icy grip. i guess sometimes the simpler the better. thank Heaven for spring. enjoyed this very much ... :)

[john l smith]

Thanks Pete
At first it could be about money and sustenance and in later life (like now) it is just easier to stay in place and look at pictures (like your beautiful pump and its fresh clear water)

[Robert Trakofler]

He he... don't wallow for the swallows! We screwy ones are the best and choose similar friends company, to nest!

[Stella Armour]

Oh how lovely to have them nest so close to you...

[john l smith]

yes Stella
Obviously they all look the same but I know it is the same two, always back right beside the bedroom slider
Just like having a new puppy (well, not quite)

[Chris Shaw]

Amazing creatures those little birds. A complete wonder how they travel back to the same place each year. Love them. I enjoyed this write, makes you really appreciate what we have. Good Sunday to you Dave.

Chris

[john l smith]

they are one of nature' treasures
And a good Sunday to you

[Chris Shaw]

They are treasures, absolutely. I am on holiday in Brixham, Devon. It is just getting dark, so I bid you a good afternoon:)

[john l smith]

Well-That is interesting
I brought it up to have a look at the place and was presented with a ton of painting subjects!!!!!
My favourite type!!!!!
Boats and background of houses on hills!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have been looking for some fodder lately and your holiday has supplied just that
Enjoy your time away, looks like a beautiful spot
Does that make up for all that soaked to the skin "rope' holding

[Chris Shaw]

I am in one of those cottages overlooking the harbour. I can see the Golden Hind replica ship from my window. Brixham by night is magical. The views of the harbour, marina and open sea are spectacular. Inspired many an artist and poet. Yes, I have got over my crewing activities in the rain :)

[Dave]

John -
I too am often filled with the wonder of some of the birds that travel such long distances. Here in New Jersey we have scads of Canadian geese that seemed to have settled in. I can remember as a child watching them, in their formations flying south. I seldom see those formations any more.

Take care - Dave

[john l smith]

strange, perhaps the warming trend has them changing old habits
We could send you a few thousand more

[jacob erin-cilberto]

those swallows are pretty smart even if a few screws are loose...did you ask those two sparrows if they knew what the capital of Peru is?

[john l smith]

Thankyou for your comment Jacob

Dave B

[Samuel Dickens]

Well, a bunch of vikings went to Greenland and starved to death. Before you knew it, more of 'em came. All I can figure is that adventurin' was strong in their blood. Your adventurin' swallows seemed to have figured out the starving to death part. Joking aside, I love bird watching, also, and am eager to see the hummingbirds return.

[john l smith]

we had them stay all winter this year and when it got real cold for about a month, I didn't know if they would survive, but all is well and more have arrived
Amazing birds
Thanks 4 visit