Barn Swallow
NameBarn Swallow
Common NameBarn Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo rustica
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)19
Plumage DetailsAdult Barn Swallows typically have iridescent steel-blue upperparts, a rufous (rusty) forehead and throat, and pale rufous underparts separated by a dark blue breast band. Their deeply forked tail features white spots on the outer feathers. The image also displays an albino individual, which lacks pigment, appearing entirely white with pink eyes and a pale bill.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a cheerful, twittering song often interspersed with dry rattles and a sharp 'wit-wit' alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen country, farmland, meadows, marshes, coastal areas, near human structures
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across North America, Europe, and Asia, and winters in South America, Africa, southern Asia, and northern Australia.
Identifying FeaturesDeeply forked tail, Iridescent blue upperparts, Rufous throat and underparts, Agile, acrobatic flight, Often seen near human structures
Description
The Barn Swallow is a graceful, agile aerial insectivore known for its deeply forked tail and acrobatic flight. It is a highly migratory species, breeding across the Northern Hemisphere and wintering in the Southern Hemisphere. The image shows a typical Barn Swallow alongside a rare albino individual.
