House Of Multiple Occupancy

HMO for short.

Last year we had a successful House Martin nest, fledging three young after building a mud nest in the eaves of our house.

The nest fell down - after they had fledged, thankfully.  To avoid a potential disaster, this year I put up 'preformed' nest boxes.

This year, we have had dozens of Swallows, Swifts, and House Martins swooping around, feeding on the wing from clouds of flying insects.

House Martins initially turned down the chance of a ready made house and chose instead to build their nest on top of the house alarm box;

Then another pair decided they liked the ready-made house and are actively adapting it to their own preference. They have nibbled and pecked to widen the opening and are bringing mud in from a nearby stream. I can only presume they are lining it inside? I don't know.

Then, another pair have begun building a mud nest under the eaves at the opposite end of the house. 

Three pairs busily home making , I shall watch with interest and not a little anxiety, to see how this little saga develops.

We have had some decent rain, so hopefully it is good quality mud !