Medium to large swallow with a squared-off tail and buffy orange rump. Very similar to Cliff Swallow. Wings, back and tail are all dark. Adults have dark bluish-black cap and similarly colored back with white streaks. Chestnut forehead, light orange cheeks,and pale, buffy throat distinguishes adults from adult Cliff Swallows. Note that the Mexican subspecies of Cliff Swallow has a chestnut rather than white forehead. Has white belly and flanks. Juveniles similar to adult, but with dark head. Unlike juvenile Cliff, has pale throat and neck.

Length: 14 (cm) Wingspan: 30 (cm)

Voice:

Call a series of clear, squeaky chattering notes. Twittering song similar to that of a Cliff Swallow, but higher pitched.

Habitat:

Breeds in caves or man-made structures, usually near water. Forages in open areas close to nesting colonies.

Behavior:

Found in large flocks, especially when nesting. Places nests in areas with little light, probably for increased safety. To see the nests, they fly past them and turn to face them (and the mouth of the cave) so that they are at a better angle.

Feeding:

Feeds on flying insects.