Eastern Red-rumped Swallow
NameEastern Red-rumped Swallow
Common NameEastern Red-rumped Swallow
Scientific NameCecropis daurica
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)19.5
Plumage DetailsGlossy dark blue-black upperparts, including the crown and mantle, contrast with a striking rufous-orange rump. The underparts are buffy white with heavy dark streaking, particularly on the breast and flanks. The throat and sides of the head are rufous, often with a dark malar stripe, and it has a deeply forked tail with long outer streamers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of short, sharp 'chip' or 'chick' notes, often given in flight, and a more complex, twittering song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia, from Turkey eastwards through the Himalayas, China, and into Japan. It winters in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of southern Asia.
Identifying FeaturesRufous-orange rump, Heavily streaked buffy-white underparts, Glossy dark blue-black upperparts, Rufous throat and sides of head, Deeply forked tail with long streamers
Description
This medium-sized swallow is an agile aerial insectivore, recognized by its distinctive rufous rump and heavily streaked underparts. It often perches on wires or buildings and is known for its graceful flight patterns.
