The Greater Striped Swallow is a common and widespread swallow found in Southern Africa. It is easily recognized by its rufous head, heavily striped underparts, and blue-black upperparts.
Where to spot
Open country, savannas, grasslands, and human settlements, often near water, throughout Southern Africa.
How to spot
Look for its rufous head, dark blue-black back, and prominently striped white underparts. Its deeply forked tail is also characteristic. Observe its agile flight.
When to spot
Summer breeder (southern hemisphere summer, Sept-Apr) in much of its range, migrating north in winter.
Where to spot
Open country, savannas, grasslands, and human settlements, often near water, throughout Southern Africa.
How to spot
Look for its rufous head, dark blue-black back, and prominently striped white underparts. Its deeply forked tail is also characteristic. Observe its agile flight.
When to spot
Summer breeder (southern hemisphere summer, Sept-Apr) in much of its range, migrating north in winter.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species is famous for its elaborate, bottle-shaped mud nests, often built under bridges, culverts, or rock overhangs, which are a true marvel of avian architecture.
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