Tree Swallow

Tachycineta bicolor

Appearance:

Dark upperparts   

    Adults: Glossy blue

       (females duller than males)

    Juveniles: Dusky brown

Dark cap down to level of eye

Clean white underparts

Juveniles have gray breast band

Forked tail

Tiny bill

Listen to its call.

I seem to have gotten into a rut lately, always looking for new birds in the same old places. So, I decided to switch things up a bit this morning and try my luck at Rithet's Bog. Not having had much success there in the past, I was surprised at the hubbub when we arrived. There was a plethora of birds, more than I had seen in one place in a long time. Swallows were in abundance, included the ones in these photos. 

Juveniles

These young birds may lack the striking iridescent blue of the adults that have swiftly flown by me on previous occasions, but they are certainly much more cooperative as models.

 

Learn more about the Tree Swallow.