Alaska Songbird Institute

Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

Description

Tree Swallows are small, aerodynamic, and flashy songbirds. A species of aerial insectivore, Tree Swallows swipe their insect prey out of the air mid-flight. This demands athleticism and agility. They prefer open areas, so you’re much more likely to see a Tree Swallow in a grassy field than in a densely wooded forest. Tree Swallows nest in cavities–hollowed out areas in trees, holes in the ground, mounds of soil, and nest boxes.

 

Tree Swallows are white underneath and iridescent green and blue on top. Their wings are a dark brown-grey color. They have black “mask” running from their eye to their beak. When perched, their bodies appear particularly long and slender.

Range

Tree Swallow Range

Source: Cornell Lab