I offer no excuses for returning so soon but for a final time this year to one of my favourite topics, namely the Kingston Thames-side swallows.

Two weeks ago I wrote how the birds seemed to have dispersed. However, on an afternoon of torrential rain I found a flock of about thirty swallows very active and vocal on the opposite side of the river. The flock comprised both recently fledged young together with some adults which I have no doubt were the combined families that had nested on the Kingston side of the river this summer.

The birds were speeding high around some lofty poplar and horse-chestnut trees flanking a meadow in which grazed some lovely grey horses.

So, flying insects were clearly abundant and the swallows were taking full advantage seemingly unaffected by the downpour.

They were indulging in an activity that I have witnessed before but which never fails to amaze and thrill me, whereby the adults feed their young whilst airborne.

An adult will fly directly towards a young bird, somehow recognising its own offspring and both birds meet at speed, head on, beak to beak for a skilful transfer of food. The whole incident lasts for about a second (pictured).

Its almost as if the birds are stealing a quick mid-air kiss! Fascinating behaviour to watch and worth writing about before the iconic birds fly south.