[obol] swallows in mourning

[JAMES C GORTER]

Last Thursday (7/17/08), there was a dead violet green swallow on the road at Trout Lake, Washington.  From location and condition, it probably collided with a car that day.  The road is unpaved with very light traffic.  Frequently that afternoon and on Friday and Saturday small groups (2-4 or so) swallows stood on the ground close (less than one foot) to the dead bird.  There was also a flock of swallows on the wire overhead, more than I noticed in other places nearby.  By Sunday, the birds were gone.  Is this common with swallows or other species?  Was it a parent or nestmate?      
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