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Welcome Swallow
Photo: Courtesy of Damon Ramsey
Welcome Swallow,
Hirundo neoxena
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This small bird has dark bluish upperparts, a
greyish white belly, and contrasting orange face and neck.
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In flight, the wings are quite sharp, the
v-shape in the tail feathers is often obvious, and the dirty white belly and
contrasting rusty neck can often be seen.
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They are often seen flying fast over and
around water, sometimes in mixed flocks with other swallows and martins, and
thus identification can be difficult; however, 'welcome swallows' lack the
white rumps of the martins.
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Welcome Swallows can regularly be seen
perched on wires.
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While in flight they may emit a single high
'chip' as they swoop past. They often nest in buildings, under bridges, and
even on boats and river ferries.
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They are found above more open habitat over
much of eastern, southern and parts of central Australia, including urban
areas and agricultural situations.
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They are partly migratory, with many
migrating from south-eastern Australia, along the east coast into the tropics
at colder times of the year.
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Their small nest is a cup made from mud and
grass, lined with softer materials such as fur and feathers, and is often
attached under overhangs in caves and human-made structures.
Script: Courtesy of Damon Ramsey BSc.(Zool) Biologist Guide
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