How to Identify a Cliff Swallow

Compared to other swallows, the Cliff Swallow has a similar shape, size and color. It has a small bill and black face with brown throat. The forehead and bottom of the bird are pale orange. While the Cliff Swallow shares traits with its close family members, there are distinct features that set it apart from the rest.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Check the size of the bird. The Cliff Swallow is around 5 inches long. The Cliff Swallow's belly is white. Its wings are pointed and long, and its tail is squared at the end.

2. Look for mud nests on buildings, bridges, barns and caves. The birds usually nest in larger colonies in gourd-shaped nests.

3. Listen for a soft "chur" sound. The Cliff Swallow sings a squeaky twitter.

4. Compare the Cliff Swallow to others in its family. The Cave Swallow is the only other swallow with a pale bottom. It has a chestnut forehead unlike the Cliff Swallow's orange forehead.

5. Observe the bird follow other swallows from the colony for food. When one leaves the mud nest, many others will follow him to food.

6. View the Cliff Swallow eating primarily flying insects. They will catch the insects in mid-air by swooping down on them.

Tips & Warnings

• Cliff swallows are easier to spot flying.
• Cliff Swallows are hard to count because they congregate in large numbers, coming and going often.

Resources

• Find facts about the Cliff Swallow at All About Birds--Cornell Lab of Ornithology.