Blue Swallow
NameBlue Swallow
Common NameBlue Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo atrocaerulea
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)13
Plumage DetailsAdults are entirely covered in a deep, glossy dark blue plumage, which can appear almost black in certain lighting conditions. The back and wings show a subtle iridescent sheen. The most distinctive feature is the very long, slender outer tail streamers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tswee' call, often given in flight. It also has a chattering song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds in high-altitude grasslands and marshes of southern and eastern Africa, including South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It undertakes seasonal migrations, moving to lower altitudes or more northern parts of its range during the non-breeding season.
Identifying Featuresglossy dark blue plumage, exceptionally long outer tail streamers, slender body, aerial foraging flight
Description
The Blue Swallow is a small, slender passerine bird known for its glossy dark blue plumage and exceptionally long outer tail streamers. It is an aerial insectivore, gracefully foraging over open grasslands and wetlands.
