Tree Swallow
Tachycineta bicolor · Swallows
The Tree Swallow is a graceful aerial insectivore found across the Americas, recognized by its striking iridescent blue-green upperparts and clean white underparts. These birds are highly adaptable cavity nesters, readily utilizing both natural tree hollows and artificial nest boxes. Their ability to supplement their insect diet with berries allows them to return to breeding grounds earlier in spring than many other swallow species.
Explore the full field guideMigratorySmall sizeTwittering voiceInsectivorous
1 call·first heard Sep 19·last 22d ago
When it's heardpeak 8a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Adults display glossy blue or blue-green iridescent upperparts, contrasting sharply with pure white underparts.
- Juveniles are dusky brown on their upperparts and often show a gray-brown wash across the chest, which distinguishes them from adults.
- Adult females are generally duller than males and may have a brownish forehead or a mix of brown and iridescent blue-green on their upperparts.
- Characterized by a smooth, languid flight with long glides punctuated by quick wing flaps.