When the wild geese come inland and seek shelter it is a sign that a storm is nigh. When the swallows fly low and a flock of starlings are seen to alight in a field it is a sign of coming rain. When the east wind is blowing and the weather is cold and dry the people round there call it "hash" (harsh) weather. It is said that when the sheep and goats come home from the hills it is a sign of rain.
The cricket on the hob sings when rain is approaching. The cricket is an insect like a grasshopper who lives behind the fire-grate and comes out and sings when it is going to rain.