Relatively large and slender with long wings and a long, deeply forked tail. Glossy dark blue on rump, back, and crown. Dark wings and face. Adult males are burnt orange below, while females and immatures are buffer to almost white on the underparts. In all plumages the throat and forehead are chestnut-orange. Juveniles have shorter tails than adults. The Eurasian subspecies is similar to the American subspecies, but has a darker rufous throat and forehead, a blue breast band, much whiter belly, and longer tail. Flight is much more willowy than other swallows.

Length: 17 (cm) Wingspan: 38 (cm)

Voice:

Song a long, rambling series of chattering notes.

Habitat:

Inhabits a wide variety of open areas, including rivers and lakes, agricultural areas, grassy fields, or sandy areas.

Behavior:

May form very large roosts. Forages low over fields or water with swoops and glides. Often builds its nest under the eaves or barns or other out buildings.

Feeding:

Diet consists of flying insects; occasionally eats seeds or berries.