- Cecropis cucullata
Hirundo cucullata
Identification
18–20 cm
Chestnut cap, pale chestnut rump and lightly streaked underparts that appear almost white in flight.
Similar Species
Differs from Lesser Striped-Swallow that has heavier streaked underparts and orange cap extending over the ear coverts.
Distribution
Africa south of the equator. Near endemic to Southern Africa and specifically South Africa.
Taxonomy
Previously included in genus Hirundo.
This is a monotypic species[1].
Habitat
Small flocks over open terrain, montaine grassland, near culverts and human habitation; Grassland and vleis, Semi-desert shrubland.
Behaviour
In pairs when breeding; otherwise small flocks. Flies with much gliding and perches frequently on trees and wires.
Diet
Their diet consists mostly of flying ants; with some seeds also eaten.
References
- Clements, J. F., T. S. Schulenberg, M. J. Iliff, D. Roberson, T. A. Fredericks, B. L. Sullivan, and C. L. Wood. 2014. The eBird/Clements checklist of birds of the world: Version 6.9., with updates to August 2014. Downloaded from http://www.birds.cornell.edu/clementschecklist/download/
- Handbook of the Birds of the World Alive (retrieved September 2014)
- Wikipedia
Recommended Citation
- BirdForum Opus contributors. (2024) Greater Striped Swallow. In: BirdForum, the forum for wild birds and birding. Retrieved 25 April 2024 from https://www.birdforum.net/opus/Greater_Striped_Swallow
External Links
GSearch checked for 2020 platform.1
