This white-bellied dark-backed Eurasian swallow resembles a Tree Swallow when perched, but has forked tail and conspicuous white rump that are easily seen in flight. Adult male: Dark iridescent bluish on upperparts including, crown, upper face, nape, and back; eye is surrounded by dark feathering. Wings are very dark dusky brown, may appear black in some light. Underparts are completely white from chin to undertail coverts. In flight, note the bright white underwing linings and rump. Adult female: Grayer underparts than male. Juvenile: Paler overall with shallower forked tail than adult.

Length: 12 (cm) Wingspan: 28 (cm)

Habitat:

Open habitats near water; lakes, rivers, ponds. Nests on cliffs and under bridges, overhanging eaves, or ledges on buildings.

Behavior:

May form gregarious nesting colonies. Highly migratory.

Feeding:

Diet consists of insects.