South African Swallow
NameSouth African Swallow
Common NameGreater Striped Swallow
Scientific NameCecropis cucullata
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)30.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)24.5
Plumage DetailsGlossy blue-black upperparts, rufous-orange rump, dark crown, rufous throat and cheeks, and pale buff to whitish underparts with fine dark streaking. The flight feathers are dark brown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of chirps, twitters, and a characteristic 'chissick' or 'chissik' call. Its song is a cheerful, chattering series of notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, breeding mainly in South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, and parts of Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Migrates north to Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo during the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesRufous-orange rump, Dark crown, Streaked underparts, Glossy blue-black back, Moderately forked tail
Description
The Greater Striped Swallow is a medium-sized swallow characterized by its glossy blue-black upperparts, a distinctive rufous-orange rump, and a dark crown. It has pale, finely streaked underparts and a moderately forked tail. This agile aerial insectivore is often seen foraging over open country and nesting on man-made structures.
