Swallows can be challenging to identify, but the northern rough-winged swallow – named for small hooks on the edges of its wings – is easy to spot because of its unusual brown coloration and the fact that it is quite common throughout the United States.
Common Name:
Northern Rough-Winged Swallow
Scientific Name:
Stelgidopteryx serripennis
Appearance:
- Bill: Short and stubby, black
- Size: 5-6 inches long with 13-inch wingspan, stocky tapered body, notched tail
- Colors: Brown, tan, black, white, gray
- Markings: Northern rough-winged swallows are the plainest of the swallows. These bird have dark brownish-black plumage on their wings and back, a brown neck and head, dark eyes and a light gray-brown on the chin, throat and upper breast. The abdomen is a dingy white.
Foods:
Insects
Habitat and Migration:
Northern rough-winged swallows are common in the summer throughout the United States and the southern edge of Canada. They prefer open fields and bodies of water where they can feed easily. While they can live year-round in Central America, most of the swallows migrate to the southern parts of Central America in the winter, as far south as Panama.
Vocalizations:
These swallows are generally silent but become more vocal during migration. Their principle call is a short, rapid “zzzt” buzz.
Behavior:
Unlike most swallow species, northern rough-winged swallows are generally solitary or can be found in pairs or small flocks. They are adaptable birds and will often flock with other swallow species, particularly while feeding. To feed, they fly low and swift over open fields or bodies of water.
Reproduction:
Northern rough-winged swallows are monogamous birds that burrow to create nests between 9 and 30 inches deep. The female bird will incubate a nest of 3-8 eggs for 12 days, and the young birds remain in the nest for 20 days after hatching while they are fed by both parents. Pairs will raise one brood per year.
Attracting Northern Rough-Winged Swallows:
Swallows are not common backyard birds, but northern rough-winged swallows can be tempted to stay near human habitation if there are open fields with dry dirt banks for nesting. Birders can also avoid using pesticides and insecticides to ensure there is an attractive food source available.
Similar Birds:
- Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia)
- Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota)
Northern Rough-Winged Swallow Photo © Dori
Northern Rough-Winged Swallow Flight Photo © Ed Schneider
