Welcome Swallow
NameWelcome Swallow
Common NameWelcome Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo neoxena
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)25.5
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)13.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy dark blue upperparts, a rufous (rusty-orange) forehead, throat, and upper breast, and pale creamy-white underparts. The tail is long and deeply forked, with white spots on the inner webs of the outer tail feathers, visible in flight.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a rapid, chattering twitter, often ending with a rising 'twee-twee'. They also produce sharp alarm calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsurban, grassland, wetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to Australia and New Zealand, also found on some Pacific islands. It has expanded its range to Tasmania and other islands in recent decades.
Identifying Featuresglossy dark blue upperparts, rufous forehead and throat, creamy-white underparts, deeply forked tail, agile, acrobatic flight
Description
The Welcome Swallow is a small, agile passerine bird known for its aerial foraging. It has glossy blue upperparts, a rufous face and throat, and a deeply forked tail, often seen swooping gracefully over open areas and near human habitation.
