Alternative name: South African Cliff Swallow
- Petrochelidon spilodera
Hirundo spilodera
Identification
They can be distinguished in flight from other metallic-blue swallows by their square (rather than forked) tail.
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.
Taxonomy
Previously included in genus Hirundo.
Petrochelidon spilodera is monotypic.
Habitat
Grassland and savanna.
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.
