>From Bev Propen 9/19 5:30-7:30PM A hardy "thank you" to Andy Griswold, Capt. Mark, and Mindy for an extremely informative, exhilarating and awe inspiring cruise on the Connecticut River to watch the "swallow ballet". The flock this evening was estimated at 200,000 individuals, approximately 1/2 wide by 1/4 mile deep. As described in a previous posting, the swallows fly in from the east, covering the sky, some dipping down to the water to drink and fly in large groups, blanketing the sky for awhile. Then at approximately 60 mph they dive down, like a heavy rain (good description) and finally settle into the phragmites for the night. When asked if there is a dominant bird which leads the flock, Andy answered, "Yes, his name is Bob"...we all got a chuckle from that. Other birds seen this evening include a bald eagle, several Great egrets, several Great Blue Herons, an osprey, 2 mute swans, and then another mute swan with two cygnets, a Great Black backed gull, and several double crested cormorants. It is a birding trip everyone should experience. ************************************** See what's new at http://www.aol.com