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Swallows
- Barn swallows build mud houses under bridges and in barns
- Tree swallows feed heavily on aquatic insects
- Purple martins thrive in man-made communal birdhouses
Members of the swallow family (which includes martins) are small, quick birds and have body lengths of 10–24cm (4–9 inches) and weights of 10–60g (0.5–2.0oz). The legs are short, and their feet are designed for perching rather than walking. They have short bills, but strong jaws and a wide gape. Swallow tails may be deeply forked, somewhat indented, or square-ended. The name “martin” tends to be used for the squarer-tailed species while the name “swallow” for the more fork-tailed species; however, there is no scientific distinction between these two groups.
The swallow family is characterized by the adaptation for aerial feeding. This was accomplished by developing a slender streamlined body and long pointed wings, which allow great maneuverability and endurance. Swallows hunt insects mid-flight, and most species hunt over open areas or near water. Here, swallows are tied to Oneida Lake because most of their food is dependant on the lake. When winter comes and food becomes scarce, the local swallow species migrate south to Mexico, Central America, and even South America. Swallow pairs mate for life, and each year, these pairs return to the same breeding areas on Oneida Lake.
The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is identified by its tiny bill, and long, deeply forked tail. It has a dark orange forehead and throat, pale orange underbelly, and a dark iridescent back. Barn swallows nest in colonies, and build mud nests in barns, caves, and under bridges. Female barn swallows select mates on the basis of tail length.
Tree swallows (Tachycineta bicolor) have iridescent blue-green upperparts and a white underside, with females of the species showing duller colors than males. This swallow possesses a forked tail that is not as pronounced as that of the barn swallow, and its body tends to be smaller. Tree swallows are found in large flocks, and nest in cavities near water sources.
The male purple martin (Progne subis) is easily distinguished by its entirely dark purple to black plumage. It is similar to the starling but the martin has a smaller bill, longer wings, and a darker plumage. Females have dark grey upperparts with purple accents, and have a grey speckled underbelly. The purple martin is the largest member of the swallow family, and lives communally. Purple martins are known for living in complex man-made birdhouses.
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