The Red-rumped Swallow is a striking swallow known for its distinctive orange-red rump and collar, long tail streamers, and pale, streaked underparts. It often builds bottle-shaped mud nests under eaves and bridges.
Where to spot
Breeds across Southern Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia, extending into India and parts of Southeast Asia. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in Africa and tropical Asia.
How to spot
Look for its unique combination of blue-black upperparts, a prominent orange-red rump, a nuchal collar, and finely streaked pale underparts. Its tail streamers are long but broader than a Barn Swallow's. Observe its agile flight over open country and under bridges or eaves where it may nest.
When to spot
Observed during the breeding season from spring to late summer in its Northern Hemisphere range. Migratory passage can be seen in spring and autumn.
Where to spot
Breeds across Southern Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia, extending into India and parts of Southeast Asia. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in Africa and tropical Asia.
How to spot
Look for its unique combination of blue-black upperparts, a prominent orange-red rump, a nuchal collar, and finely streaked pale underparts. Its tail streamers are long but broader than a Barn Swallow's. Observe its agile flight over open country and under bridges or eaves where it may nest.
When to spot
Observed during the breeding season from spring to late summer in its Northern Hemisphere range. Migratory passage can be seen in spring and autumn.
Credits:
Dirk-Jan van Roest
The Red-rumped Swallow's flask-shaped mud nest is a remarkable feat of avian engineering, featuring an entrance tunnel that can be up to 20 cm long.
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