Southern Rough-winged Swallow
NameSouthern Rough-winged Swallow
Common NameSouthern Rough-winged Swallow
Scientific NameStelgidopteryx ruficollis
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsThe upperparts are dull brownish, with a slightly darker crown and back. The throat and sides of the head show a rufous or buffy wash, contrasting with the whitish underparts. The wings and tail are dark brown, and the underwing coverts are pale.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a raspy, buzzy 'chrrrt' or 'dzrrt' call, often given in flight or from a perch. They also produce a soft, twittering song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland, urban, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Mexico through Central America and much of South America, extending south to northern Argentina and Uruguay. It is a resident species throughout most of its range.
Identifying Featuresdull brownish upperparts, rufous throat and cheeks, whitish underparts, rough outer primary feathers (not visible in image but characteristic), agile aerial flight
Description
This small, agile swallow is characterized by its dull brownish plumage and a slightly rufous wash on its throat. It is an aerial insectivore, often seen gracefully hawking insects over open areas and water bodies. They are known for their distinctive rough outer primary feathers, which give them their name.
