Mary Allen
Introduction: Meet the Swallows!
Swallows are perhaps one of the most recognizable birds in the world. With their sleek bodies, forked tails, and graceful flight patterns, they are a beloved symbol of spring and summer. These birds are found all over the world, from the Americas to Europe to Asia, and they are known for their incredible aerial acrobatics, darting through the air to catch insects on the wing.
Swallow Basics: What are they like?
Swallows are small, slim birds with pointed wings and a shallow, forked tail. They range in size from the tiny Banded Martin, which weighs only a few grams, to the slightly larger Barn Swallow, which can weigh up to 20 grams. Swallows are known for their aerial agility and are able to fly at incredible speeds, often reaching up to 35 miles per hour. They have a distinctive chirping call that is easy to recognize.
Where Swallows Live: Homes and Habitats
Swallows are found in a variety of habitats, from open fields and grasslands to wetlands and forests. They often build their nests in barns, sheds, and other man-made structures, but they also nest in trees, cliffs, and other natural sites. Swallows are migratory birds and spend their winters in warmer areas, migrating to their breeding grounds in the spring. Some species of swallow, such as the Purple Martin, are entirely dependent on humans for their nesting sites and will not nest in the wild at all.