Medium to large swallow, with a thicker torso and broader more blunt wings than other swallows. Tail is squared-off and the rump is buffy orange. Has dark wings, back and tail. Adults have dark bluish-black cap and back, which also has vertical white stripes. White forehead distinctive, as are chestnut throat and cheeks and bluish-black throat. White belly and flanks. Juveniles similar to adults, but with limited bluish tones and a brown head and breast. Cave Swallow very similar, but has light orange cheeks, a buffy throat that blends with chest, and a chestnut (not white) forehead. Note that the Mexican subspecies of Cliff Swallow has a rusty forehead.

Length: 14 (cm) Wingspan: 29 (cm)

Voice:

Song a series of squeaky twittering notes.

Habitat:

Found in a variety of open habitats, usually near water so that it can gather mud for nesting. Nests on cliffs, bridges, and under the eaves of buildings.

Behavior:

Forms large nesting colonies. May lay eggs in other swallow's nests, or carry their own eggs to a different nest. Often circles high over open areas to feed on insects.

Feeding:

Diet consists almost entirely of flying insects.