Lessons from a navy-backed swallow

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I used to think swallows were harassing me as did laps around my local playing fields. I figured they swooped and dived about to drive me out of their territory, and this was clearly their territory.

Sometimes they would line me up and charge in fast, passing within centimetres. I feared for my eyes, but unlike magpies and miners and other territorial birds, these feisty characters don't attack at head height. They fly lower, zipping about my feet. 

Finally I twigged to my error. These darlings weren't attacking me. They were catching bugs stirred up as my feet passed through the grass. Swallows seldom alight, preferring to eat and even drink on the fly.

What an attitude I had. Humbled by a precious bird who chose me for symbiotic benefit, I had a new respect for them foraging so creatively.

It gave me a new perspective on my value ecologically. I could imagine the chat as I approached. 'Take your positions. Here she comes'.