Bank Swallow
NameBank Swallow
Common NameBank Swallow
Scientific NameRiparia riparia
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsDull brown upperparts, including the head, back, and wings. The underparts are white, with a prominent dark brown band stretching across the chest. The tail is slightly forked and dark brown.
Vocalization / CallA dry, rattling 'trrrrt' or 'chrrrt' call, often given in flight or when congregating at nesting colonies.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of North America, Europe, and Asia. Winters in South America, Africa, and southern Asia. It is one of the most widespread swallow species globally.
Identifying Featuresbrown upperparts, white underparts, dark breast band, small size, forked tail, colonial nesting in banks
Description
The Bank Swallow is a small, agile aerial insectivore characterized by its dull brown upperparts and white underparts, distinctly marked by a dark brown band across the chest. These highly social birds nest in large colonies, excavating burrows in sandy or earthy banks, often near water.
