Relatively small and slender swallow; dark, defined breast band diagnostic in all plumages. White throat wraps around cheeks. White belly. Upperparts and breast band dark brown, usually shows noticeable contrast between the back, which is the color of dried garden soil, and the darker wings. Juvenile similar to adults. The larger, immature Tree Swallow has incomplete breast band and shows more uniform dusky coloration on the back and wings; Northern Rough-winged Swallow larger with dusky breast band blending with paler throat.

Length: 12 (cm) Wingspan: 27 (cm)

Voice:

Call a long series of gargling, rough scratchy notes.

Habitat:

Usually found foraging over open fields, lakes or rivers. Large nesting colonies usually found in streamside cutbanks. Nests in burrows.

Behavior:

Wing beats are shallow and fluttery.

Feeding:

Mostly feeds on flying insects.