Barn Swallow
Image: Kit 🪻 (cc-by-nc)
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 (reddish-brown) forehead and throat, a dark blue breast band, and pale buff to white underparts. The tail is long and deeply forked, with white spots on the outer tail feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a cheerful, twittering song, often interspersed with a 'wit-wit' or 'squeak' call. Alarm calls are sharp 'sitt' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen country, farmland, meadows, pastures, near water, human structures
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Winters in the Southern Hemisphere, spanning South America, Africa, southern Asia, and northern Australia.
Identifying Featuresdeeply forked tail, iridescent blue-black back, rufous face and throat, agile, acrobatic flight, dark breast band
Description
The Barn Swallow is a highly agile aerial insectivore known for its graceful flight and distinctive deeply forked tail. It is a widespread migratory species, often found near human habitation where it builds its mud nests.
