White-backed Swallow
NameWhite-backed Swallow
Common NameWhite-backed Swallow
Scientific NameCheramoeca leucosterna
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white crown, nape, and back, contrasting sharply with black wings, tail, and a broad black band across the chest. The underparts are white, and there is a dark eye-stripe.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a soft, high-pitched 'tseep' or 'tsee-tsee', often given in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to mainland Australia, found across arid and semi-arid regions, particularly in the interior, avoiding coastal areas with high rainfall.
Identifying FeaturesWhite back and crown, Black wings and tail, Broad black chest band, White underparts, Dark eye-stripe
Description
The White-backed Swallow is a small, striking swallow with a distinctive white back and crown. It is an aerial insectivore, often seen hawking for insects over open country, and nests in burrows dug into sandy banks.
