Hello, Barn Swallow Babies! May is peak Barn Swallow migration in the northern states and provinces. Swallows reach Alaska and begin breeding in much of their range. The first babies are hatching. The photos below give you a peek at a nest. Answer the questions under each photo after reading a little more about the babies here. Which baby do you think will be fed next? Why do you think these babies stay so close together? Why do you think these babies are all facing the same way? Try This! Journaling Question Baby Barn Swallows remain in the nest until they are 18-23 days old and weigh about 17.5 grams. Compare that to baby robins, which fledge when they are 14-16 days old and weigh over 50 grams! Why do you think that baby swallows remain in the nest so much longer than baby robins even though swallows don't have to grow as much? (HINT: Think about the different places their nests are in and the different foods they eat.) Copyright 2004 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form