A Tree Swallow feeds one of her fledglings. Looking through my latest Cornell labs magazine, I saw a similar photo and was inspired to do a digital version of it. Yes, the mother almost sticks her entire head in the fledgling's mouth. Tree Swallows are found throughout North America. They uses many feathers from other birds in their nests. The feathers help keep the nestlings warm so they can grow faster. They help keep levels of ectoparasites, like mites, low as well. The Tree Swallow winters farther north than any other American swallow, and it returns to its nesting grounds long before other swallows come back. Its ability to use plant foods helps it survive periods of bad weather. Summer Range: Breeds from Alaska to Labrador, southward to southern California, New Mexico, northern South Dakota, northern Georgia, and Virginia. Winter Range: Winters from southern California, South Carolina, Florida, and the Gulf Coast southward to Panama. Rendered in Poser 2010 without postwork. Background photo from my yard :) Models: Songbird ReMix Tree Swallow (freebie on my website)