Welcome Swallow
Hirundo neoxena
Aves › Passeriformes › Hirundinidae › Hirundo
Conservation status: least_concern
The welcome swallow is a small passerine bird in the swallow family Hirundinidae that is native to Australia and nearby islands. It has self-introduced into New Zealand in the middle of the twentieth century. It is very similar to the Pacific swallow with which it is often considered conspecific.
How To Identify
They possess a streamlined, dark plumage that makes them appear swift in flight. Characteristically, they have long tails and delicate bills adapted for catching insects on the wing.
Habitat
It typically inhabits open and semi-open areas near water, including grasslands, farmland, coastal regions, and urban areas with suitable nesting sites.
Behaviour
Welcome Swallows are highly aerial insectivores that catch flying insects in mid-air and are known for their agile, swooping flight patterns and distinctive chittering calls.
Native Range
The welcome swallow is native to Australia and nearby islands.
Did You Know?
Its name and common name both refer to people welcoming its return as a herald of spring in southern parts of Australia.
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