Hirundo tahitica
The Tahiti Swallow (*Hirundo tahitica*) is a small, agile passerine belonging to the Hirundinidae family, widely distributed across the Indo-Pacific region. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm in length with a wingspan of 26-29 cm and weighing around 10-14 grams, its appearance is characterized by glossy blue-black upperparts that shimmer in good light. Distinctive field marks include a rich rufous (rusty-orange) forehead, throat, and upper breast, contrasting with duller whitish underparts. It ...
Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats, including coastal cliffs, agricultural fields, clearings, and urban areas from sea level up to approximately 1500 meters, occasionally higher.
Exclusively insectivorous, primarily consuming a wide array of flying insects such as flies, beetles, wasps, ants, mosquitoes, and moths, captured expertly on the wing.
Tahiti Swallows are diurnal and highly aerial insectivores, spending much of their day hawking for flying insects with their characteristic graceful and acrobatic flight. They are typically monogamous, with pairs defending a nesting territory. Courtship involves aerial pursuits and vocalizations....
The Tahiti Swallow exhibits an expansive resident range spanning much of the Indo-Pacific. It breeds and resides from the Indian subcontinent (including Sri Lanka and parts of the Himalayas) eastward across Southeast Asia, encompassing countries like Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesi...
Least Concern
- The 'Tahiti' in its name is a bit of a misnomer, as this species ranges across a vast area of Asia and the Pacific, extending far beyond the island of Tahiti itself. - It is one of the most widespread swallow species, adapting to diverse environments from bustling cities to remote tropical isla...