Ethiopian Swallow
NameEthiopian Swallow
Common NameEthiopian Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo aethiopica
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)12.5
Plumage DetailsThe upperparts, including the crown, back, and wings, are a glossy, iridescent dark blue. The throat and upper breast are a rich rufous (reddish-brown), sharply contrasting with a clean white belly and undertail coverts. The tail is dark and shallowly forked.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of a series of cheerful twittering and chattering notes, often described as a 'chip-chip-churr' or 'tsee-tsee-tsee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Ethiopian Swallow is found across a wide band of sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastwards through Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to northern Tanzania.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent dark blue upperparts, Rufous throat and upper breast, Clean white belly, Shallowly forked tail, Small, streamlined body
Description
A small, agile passerine, the Ethiopian Swallow is characterized by its iridescent dark blue upperparts and contrasting rufous throat and white belly. It is an aerial insectivore, often seen gracefully hawking insects in open areas.
