Physical 

Barn swallows have dark blue coloration on the back of the head, wings, tail, and back. The rusty orange-colored patch on the throat and front of the face stands out from this dark blue as well as the white to orange-colored underside. As seen typically in swallows, this species has long wings for their size and a uniquely shaped tail with a deep fork due to varying feather lengths. They are 6-7.5 inches (15-19 cm) long with a 11.5-12.5 inch (29-32 cm) wingspan.

Image by Becky Laboy

 

Habitat

Open areas such as fields, coastal marshes, lakes, ponds, and beaches all provide ample foraging opportunities. Being near bodies of water is necessary for nesting as mud is used in the construction of their nests.

 

Feeding 

Barn swallows feed on large flying insects almost entirely while in flight, utilizing the open areas that they inhabit.