Barn Swallow

Overview

Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a species of Swallows, Martins (Hirundinidae) in the order Perching Birds (Passerines). A sleek blue-backed swallow with a red throat and deeply forked tail; builds mud cup nests on buildings; returns to the same site each spring, a herald of warmer weather; catches insects in fast agile flight.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Hirundo; binomial: Hirundo rustica; authority: Linnaeus, 1758. Typical size: 17-19cm (incl. forked tail). Average lifespan: 5-10 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: worldwide.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.