Swallows arrive in Europe in mid-April having flown 10000km from their winter quarters in southern Africa. The journey takes about four weeks, and males usually arrive first. By early May, most Swallows have started breeding. In Cyprus the first Swallows are often seen as early as late January and early February as they pass through Cyprus on their way to their breeding grounds in Europe. Many will stay to breed and start building their nests in late February/early March.
By early September, most Swallows are preparing to migrate. They flutter about restlessly, and often gather on telegraph wires. Most leave during September with the early broods of youngsters being the first to go. A few stragglers may hang around into October.
The return journey to Africa takes about six weeks. Swallows from different parts of Europe fly to different destinations.
Swallows migrate during daylight, flying quite low and at night they roost in huge flocks in reed-beds at traditional stop-over points.
For years people have celebrated their sudden appearance as a sign that summer is on the way.
