ExploreBird

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

The Tree Swallow is a small, colorful bird with shiny greenish-blue feathers. They love to fly high and catch insects in the air!

Habitat: Open fields near water, like lakes and rivers.

Appearance

The Tree Swallow has an iridescent, metallic blue-green back and a pure white belly, giving it a striking contrast. Its sleek body and pointed wings make it distinct from other swallow species, which may have darker undersides or different tail shapes.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyHirundinidaeGenusTachycineta

Tree Swallow

Interesting facts

A single Tree Swallow can catch over 2,000 flying insects in one day!

These birds use their sticky saliva to help build their cozy nests!

They often use old woodpecker holes or human-made nest boxes.

Tree Swallows sometimes sunbathe to help get rid of tiny parasites!

Special abilities

Tree Swallows can dart and weave through the air because of their sleek body and pointed wings that help them catch flying insects.

Tree Swallows can eat waxy berries in winter because their unique digestive system allows them to process plant matter when insects are scarce.

Tree Swallows have soft, white breast feathers that help them insulate their nests, keeping their eggs and chicks warm and cozy.

Measurements & details

Length: 12-15 cm
Wingspan: 30-34 cm
Weight: 0.017-0.021 kg
Lifespan: 2-8 years
Top Speed: 60 km/h
Clutch Size: 4-7
Incubation: 13-16 days
Migration Distance: 4000 km

Diet & Feeding

Acrobatic birds primarily feast on flying insects, but can also eat berries when bugs are scarce.

Primary Foods

flies
mosquitoes
beetles
dragonflies
bayberries
sumac berries

Foraging Method

Pursuit

Ecological connections

eaten by

American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

A quick raptor that may prey on adult swallows.

eaten by

Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

Climbs trees to raid nests for eggs and chicks.

eats

Northern Bayberry

Myrica pensylvanica

Eats waxy berries for energy during cold months.

depends on

Eastern Bluebird

Sialia sialis

Competes with swallows for coveted nesting cavities.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Feathered

These are animals covered in soft, beautiful feathers that help them fly, stay warm, and even attract mates! Think of all the amazing birds you know.

Aerial

Discover amazing creatures that spend much of their lives soaring high above the ground, often using wings to fly! They might hunt, travel, or even sleep up in the sky.

Colorful

Discover amazing plants and animals that show off a dazzling array of bright and beautiful hues! They use their vibrant colors to attract attention or send signals.

Insectivorous

Discover clever creatures that specialize in munching on insects, playing a super important role in keeping bug populations in check. They are nature's tiny bug vacuums!

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Migratory

Follow incredible journeys across the world! These animals travel far and wide at different times of the year, often to find better food or warmer places.