Tahiti Swallow
NameTahiti Swallow
Common NamePacific Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo tahitica
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features iridescent dark blue upperparts, wings, and a forked tail. The forehead, lores, and throat are a rich rufous color, contrasting with the dusky greyish-brown underparts, which may sometimes have a rufous wash. A dark breast band can be present but is often indistinct.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of soft, twittering notes, often concluding with a harsher 'chrr-chrr'. It also emits sharp 'chip' or 'tchip' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsurban, coastal, forest, grassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Southeast Asia, Melanesia, and Polynesia, including numerous islands in the Pacific Ocean.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent dark blue upperparts, Rufous forehead and throat, Dusky underparts, Forked tail, Agile, acrobatic flight
Description
This small, agile passerine is characterized by its iridescent dark blue upperparts and a distinctive rufous (reddish-brown) forehead and throat. It is an aerial insectivore, often seen gracefully swooping and diving in open areas to catch flying insects.
