Migration Distance
A round trip may cover 14,000 miles
Migration Route and Stopover Sites
Barn swallows breed from central Alaska to Labrador and Newfoundland, south to the southern United States and northern Mexico. During the winter, they migrate to South America. The bulk of the North American population winters in the lowlands of eastern South America. Its winter range spans from Mexico to Argentina.
Migration Speed
Swift and graceful fliers; can cover up to 600 miles a day in search of food
Migration Height
Typically fly within 100 feet of the ground; are often seen moving along coast lines or rivers, only a few feet from the ground or water
Bird Size
5.5-8 inches; sparrow-sized
Threats
Swallows can perish from inclement weather, which forces the insects to find shelter, thus removing a staple food source from their diet. Eggs may be destroyed by house wrens; adults may be driven from their nesting sites by phoebes and English swallows.
Interesting Facts
It is easily distinguished from other swallows by its forked tail.
Nearly all their food is captured while flying. They are a familiar sight in rural areas, following behind tractors and grabbing insects that are stirred up.
They are very adaptable and can nest anywhere a sheltered ledge is available. They are most commonly found in barns and have been known to live under bridges, in eaves of old houses, rock caves and even slow-moving trains.
Most of the migration is done during the day.
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