Barn Swallow
Image: ianrijsdijk (cc-by-nc)
NameBarn Swallow
Common NameBarn Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo rustica
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)19
Plumage DetailsAdult Barn Swallows have iridescent blue-black upperparts, a rufous-chestnut forehead and throat, separated from creamy white to buff underparts by a dark blue breast band. The deeply forked tail features white spots on the outer tail feathers, visible in flight.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a cheerful, twittering song often interspersed with dry rattles. Common calls are a sharp 'wit-wit' or 'sveet', used for contact and alarm.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsfarmland, open country, grassland, wetlands, coastal areas, human settlements
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Barn Swallow has a widespread breeding range across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. It is a long-distance migrant, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa, South America, and parts of southern Asia and northern Australia.
Identifying Featuresdeeply forked tail, iridescent blue-black upperparts, rufous throat and forehead, creamy white underparts, agile, acrobatic flight
Description
The Barn Swallow is a slender, agile passerine bird characterized by its deeply forked tail and graceful, acrobatic flight. It is an aerial insectivore, frequently seen swooping over open fields and water bodies to catch insects on the wing. This species often nests in man-made structures such as barns and bridges.
