Swallow

Description:

The swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a small, agile bird with long wings and a distinctive forked tail. They have a glossy blue-black head, back, and wings with a reddish-brown throat and underside. They also have a white belly and tail streamers that are longer on males than on females.

What they eat:

Swallows are insectivorous birds, and they mainly feed on flying insects like flies, moths, and beetles. They catch their prey in mid-air while flying, and they are particularly skilled at catching insects on the wing.

Habitat:

Swallows prefer open country areas like fields, meadows, and grasslands, but they can also be found near water, such as rivers, lakes, and marshes. Nesting colonies of swallows can often be found in barns, sheds, and other buildings.

Size and wingspan:

Swallows are small birds, measuring around 16-19 cm in length with a wingspan of around 32-34 cm. They weigh around 16 grams.

Male-female difference:

Male swallows typically have longer tail streamers than females, and their blue-black plumage is darker and glossier than females.

Where to find:

Swallows are found throughout Ireland, but they are more common in the southern and eastern regions. They can be seen swooping and darting through the air during the summer months.

What months can be found in Ireland:

Swallows arrive in Ireland in late March or early April to breed and stay throughout the summer months until September or October, after which they migrate to warmer climates.

Interesting note:

The swallow has been associated with good luck and prosperity in Irish folklore, and it is said that a swallow nesting in a house is a sign of good luck for the inhabitants.