Tree Swallow

Description:

Tree swallows are small birds (about 14 cm long) with long wings and small legs and feet. They are iridescent greenish-blue on their head, shoulders and back, and white their chin, breast and belly. Tree swallows have a short black beak and dark brownish feet.Young tree swallows look similar to adults, but they are brownish above instead of greenish blue.

Habitat:

Tree swallows live in open areas near water, such as fields, marshes, meadows, shorelines, beaver ponds, and wooded swamps. Because tree swallows are cavity nesters, an important habitat requirement is cavities in which to nest. These can be provided by standing dead trees, sapsucker-excavated holes in live trees, under the eaves of buildings,and in artificial nest boxes.

Notes:

Found near one of Bayfront Park's bird houses on the north side.