Barn Swallow

Background

The most distinguishable part of the Barn Swallow is their tail, known as a “swallow tail” as it is forked. They can also be identified by their steel blue colouring on top and red colouring elsewhere.

Habitat

The clue is in the name, Barn Swallows find barns and other open structures a great place to nest. They also love the open country, in particular areas with low vegetation.

Diet

The diet of a Barn Swallow consist of insects. Interestingly, these birds have found an easy way to earn a meal. They will follow farming machinery closely so that they can pick off the insects that get disturbed by the movement of the vehicle.

Predators & Threats

Their most common predators include: Falcons and bats. Although lice can also have adverse affects to their health.

Facts

• These are the most common species of swallow.
• There have been a number of areas which have seen populations of Barn Swallows decrease. However, due to their large home ranges they are not endangered.

Best Time to Look

Summer.