The meadowlands probably has the highest concentration of tree swallows in the region. This is due in part to the NJMC’s long-running practice of installing nest boxes throughout key meadowlands sites. The birds are so excited about their new homes that they circle nearby as the boxes are being installed. They may take ownership within seconds of the box’s placement.

Gaby Bennet-Meany, Brett Bragin, Amanda Iveson and Drew McQuade went by foot and by boat to place this year’s boxes at DeKorte Park, Harrier Meadow, Mill Creek Marsh, Skeetkill Marsh, the Kane Natural Area, and Marsh Resources mitigation area. The boxes are donated by volunteers from the surrounding communities.