From Opus

Photo by nkgray
Photo taken: Brits District, North-West Province, South Africa

Alternative name: South African Cliff Swallow

Petrochelidon spilodera

Hirundo spilodera

[edit] Identification

They can be distinguished in flight from other metallic-blue swallows by their square (rather than forked) tail.

[edit] Distribution

Breeds mainly in inland South Africa, but also in Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe; migrates to tropical Africa as far north as Democratic Republic of Congo.

[edit] Taxonomy

Previously included in genus Hirundo.

Petrochelidon spilodera is monotypic.

[edit] Habitat

Grassland and savanna.

[edit] Behaviour

Forage aerially over grasslands for arthropods; may feed on the ground at rich food sources (termites or locust hoppers).

Gregarious; breeds in colonies on bridges, buildings and cliffs.

[edit] External Links