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- Cecropis daurica
Includes: West African Swallow Hirundo daurica
Identification
Warm buff underparts that vary geographically from plain to quite strongly streaked (especially in northern China). Dark, glossy-blue upperparts, noticeably interrupted by chestnut nape and pale rufous rump. Black vent and undertail coverts.
Similar Species
Lacks the dark red face and breast band with sharp contrast to pale belly of Barn Swallow. Looks more thickset in flight which also gives impression of being slower.
Distribution
Portugal and Spain to Japan, India and tropical Africa.
Taxonomy
Previously included in genus Hirundo
Around ten subspecies recognized. Domicella from West Africa is sometimes split as West African Swallow.
Habitat
Plains, grassland, rocky outcrops.
Behaviour
Breeding
They build nests with a tunnel entrance lined with mud, 3-6 eggs are laid. They normally nest under sea or inland cliff overhangs, in caves, rock clefts or under bridges.
Diet
The diet includes insects.
Vocalisation
Song: A twittering warble
<flashmp3>Hirundo daurica (song).mp3</flashmp3>
Listen in an external program
References
- Wikipedia
- Collins Field Guide 5th Edition
- Birdforum Id-forum thread discussing red-rumped swallow.
External Links