The Red-Rumped Swallow (Cecropis daurica) is a small bird from Europe, Asia, and Africa. The African Red-Rumped Swallow (Cecropis daurica emini) is from Kenya, Uganda, Sudan, and Zambia. Unlike the European swallows, which are migratory, the African Red-Rumped Swallows are resident (they do not fly to another location in winter).
The Red-Rumped Swallow is a blue-black with a rufous (red-brown) rump with rufous patches on the sides of its head. It has rufous underparts with a pale throat. Its tail is plain and forked. It has dark eyes, a small grey beak, and pink-grey legs.
Red-Rumped Swallow
It grows to about 18 centimetres (7 inches) tall.
The Red-Rumped Swallow is a fast flier and it swoops on insects in the air.
It is usually found in grasslands.
The Red-Rumped Swallow builds its nest on ledges and cliff edges, as well on as buildings and bridges. It has a tunnel entrance, and is lined with mud. Females lay 3-6 eggs.
Red-Rumped Swallow
Red-Rumped Swallow
Red-Rumped Swallow
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM