European Red-rumped Swallow
NameEuropean Red-rumped Swallow
Common NameEuropean Red-rumped Swallow
Scientific NameCecropis daurica
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsGlossy dark blue-black upperparts, rufous-orange nape and rump, pale buffy-white underparts with fine dark streaking on the flanks. The tail is long and deeply forked.
Vocalization / CallA characteristic 'chissick' or 'chissip' call, often given in flight. Its song is a chattering series of notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, coastal, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, North Africa, and much of temperate Asia. Migrates to winter in sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia.
Identifying FeaturesRufous-orange rump, Rufous-orange nape, Glossy dark blue upperparts, Pale buffy-white underparts, Long, deeply forked tail
Description
This slender swallow is characterized by its glossy dark blue upperparts and a distinctive rufous-orange rump and nape. It is an agile aerial insectivore, often seen gracefully hawking insects in open country and perching on wires.
