Swallow: spring, the breeding season of the barn swallow - Netherlands by Be More Outdoor

The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a bird belonging to the family swallows (Hirundinidae). It is the most widespread species of this family; its range covers almost the entire world, with seven subspecies. The barn swallow is a striking sight because of its blue-black plumage with long outer tail feathers and because of its great agility in flight while hunting flying insects.

The barn swallow spends a large part of its life in the air. It is a migratory bird that travels large distances. The barn swallow spends the winter in Africa, South America or the south of Asia. In spring, it migrates to Europe, North America or the north of Asia for breeding. The barn swallow breeds in rural areas with sufficient water. Couples build their nest of mud mixed with saliva in all kinds of human constructions such as barns and bridges. They raise two or three broods during the breeding season, before returning to their wintering areas.

The bird prefers the countryside as a habitat and nesting area, building its nest in farms, barns and stables, among other places. The Dutch name refers to this. Other languages also refer to the countryside. The English name barn swallow and the French name hirondelle rustique mean barn swallow and rural swallow respectively. The scientific name Hirundo rustica also refers to the countryside.