It was a windy day after heavy rains. The lake had overflowed and formed puddles on the path. The birds were out in numbers, swooping over the choppy water, standing firm in swaying branches; some hovering effortlessly mid-air as they faced into the wind with wings spread.

A swallow with a bright orange neck was perched on an aged, grey branch that was poking out of the water. The wind was howling, but the bird was comfortable fluffing its feathers and preening itself.

Oil on canvas. 40cm x 30cm.