African Red-rumped Swallow
NameAfrican Red-rumped Swallow
Common NameAfrican Red-rumped Swallow
Scientific NameCecropis rufula
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)17
Weight (g)19.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are glossy dark blue, contrasting with a rufous crown, nape, and rump. The underparts are whitish, often with fine dark streaking on the flanks, and a dark malar stripe is present. The tail is deeply forked with long streamers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of chirps and trills, often described as a 'chissick' or 'chissick-chissick' call, used both in flight and while perched.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across much of sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesRufous crown and nape, Rufous rump, Glossy dark blue upperparts, Whitish underparts, Deeply forked tail with long streamers, Dark malar stripe
Description
The African Red-rumped Swallow is a medium-sized aerial insectivore characterized by its distinctive rufous head and rump. It is often seen gracefully foraging for insects over open landscapes, frequently near water or human structures. This species builds enclosed mud nests, often under eaves or bridges.
