White-throated Swallow
NameWhite-throated Swallow
Common NameWhite-throated Swallow
Scientific NameHirundo albigularis
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)20.5
Plumage DetailsThis swallow has glossy dark blue upperparts, a rufous-brown forehead, and a prominent white throat. A broad, dark blue-black band crosses its chest, separating the white throat from the white underparts. Its tail is slightly forked.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include soft 'chip-chip' notes and a pleasant, twittering song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southern Africa, breeding primarily in South Africa, Lesotho, Eswatini, and parts of Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. It migrates north during the non-breeding season to countries like Angola, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, and southern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying FeaturesWhite throat, Broad dark blue-black breast band, Glossy dark blue upperparts, Rufous-brown forehead, Slightly forked tail
Description
The White-throated Swallow is a small, agile aerial insectivore with a distinctive plumage pattern. It is often seen flying gracefully over open country, frequently near water, catching insects on the wing.
