Red-chested Swallow
NameRed-chested Swallow
Common NameRed-chested Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo lucida
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsIridescent dark blue on the crown, back, and wings. The throat and upper breast are a rich rufous (reddish-chestnut), contrasting with clean white underparts from the lower breast to the undertail coverts. It possesses a long, deeply forked tail.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of chirps, twitters, and trills, often delivered in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound primarily in West and Central Africa, often near water bodies, open grasslands, and human settlements.
Identifying Featuresiridescent dark blue upperparts, rufous throat and upper breast, white belly, deeply forked tail, aerial foraging flight
Description
This small, agile passerine is characterized by its iridescent dark blue upperparts and a striking rufous throat and upper breast. It is an aerial insectivore, often seen gracefully foraging for insects in open areas and near water.
