Tom,
      Tree Swallows remove fecal sacs just like bluebirds, but near the end 
of the nestling stage the young swallows no longer produce these sacs and 
nests become fouled with droppings.  Five-six nestlings can produce quite a 
mess.  This is a good way to tell if the nest has been sucessful.

Paul Woodward
Fairfax City, VA


 After monitoring bluebird boxes for several years I am curious about Tree
> Swallow nesting habits.  By the time the juveniles fledge the box is full 
> of
> fecal matter.  The nest is full, it is glued to side of the box, 
> everywhere.
> Some (most?) birds are fastidious about removing fecal  sacks.  Is there 
> any
> theory as to why Tree Swallow don't seem to care?
>
> Tom  Beal
> Glenn Dale, MD PG  Co.
> 
>
>