Swallow (Hirundo rustica). Words & picture by Matt Sewell.

It’s true what they say, one swallow does not make a summer, but a whole telephone wire full of these fellows chirping manically their conversational song does. But as soon as he is here and we’ve just got used to his delightful presence skipping over the hedgerows and skimming over the the river then he’s gone, leaving the old place a little bit duller. Like an old friend that returns for the summer, fills the whole room with love and laughter and before you know it has gone. Off again into the sun on another merry adventure. But you don’t want to clip his wings and make him stay against his wishes, that would be totally unjust of you and a terrible thing, but just a tiny, little bit more time would be lovely… But then again there is always next summer to look forward to… or please just take me with you.

Matt’s book, Our Garden Birds, is on sale from the Caught by the River shop, priced £10..

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