Rauchschwalbe

No swallow is more widely distributed than the Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), and few passerines migrate farther: birds breeding across North America, Europe and Asia winter in South America, Africa and southern Asia. Metallic blue-black upperparts, a rufous forehead and throat, and a deeply forked tail drawn out into long outer streamers identify the species in flight; the bill is short, wide and flat, shaped for taking insects on the wing. Flies, beetles, moths and aphids are caught in continuous agile flight, and the birds drink by skimming the water surface. Nesting is now almost entirely tied to human structures - barns, bridges and eaves - set among open farmland and meadows. Adults measure about 19 cm and 19 g. The IUCN Red List rates the species Least Concern.