Barn Swallow
NameBarn Swallow
Common NameBarn Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo rustica
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)19
Plumage DetailsAdults have iridescent blue-black upperparts, a rufous forehead and throat, and pale buff to rufous underparts. The deeply forked tail features white spots on the outer tail feathers, visible during flight.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a cheerful, twittering song, often interspersed with dry rattles and sharp 'wit-wit' calls, especially when alarmed or communicating with mates.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen country, farmland, grassland, wetlands, human settlements
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBarn Swallows have a vast breeding range across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia. They migrate to wintering grounds in South America, Africa, and southern Asia.
Identifying Featuresdeeply forked tail, iridescent blue-black upperparts, rufous throat and forehead, agile, acrobatic flight, mud cup nests on structures
Description
The Barn Swallow is a highly agile aerial insectivore, easily recognized by its deeply forked tail and graceful, swooping flight. It typically exhibits iridescent blue-black upperparts and warm rufous underparts, often nesting in close proximity to human structures.
