Streak-throated Swallow

Overview

The streak-throated swallow, also known as the Indian cliff swallow, is a passerine bird native to South Asia where it acts as a breeder, year-round resident, or winter visitor. Its current scientific classification is Petrochelidon fluvicola, previously recorded under the synonym Hirundo fluvicola.

Identification

• A sparrow-sized bird measuring approximately 11 cm in length with steel-blue upper feathers and a square-ended tail.
• Distinguishing brown streaks on the throat and chest, set against whitish underparts and a dull chestnut forehead.
• Vocalisations consist of a twittering chirp while perched and a sharp 'trr-trr' during flight.

Habitat

Found across South Asia from the plains of Pakistan east along the base of the Himalayas to Sikkim, extending south through the Indian peninsula to Point Calimere in Tamil Nadu. The species inhabits large colonies in cultivated fields and open areas near ponds, lakes, canals, and rivers. It is recorded as a vagrant in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East.

Diet

The diet consists of midges and other tiny winged insects which are caught in the air.

Did you know?

Flocks of streak-throated swallows exhibit a strong attachment to specific nesting sites, such as a colony under a college roof in Rajasthan which was rebuilt by the birds within four months after being destroyed during renovation. The flock continues to return to and rebuild at this exact location every year despite annual destruction from building cleaning.