Tree Swallow




Tree Swallow


Tree Swallow
(Tachycineta bicolor)

Order:  Passeriformes
Family:  Hirundinidae




Photo © David Blevins

Tree Swallow Information

Length:  5 - 6.25"

Habitat:  Fields, meadows, pastures, open woodlands, and other open areas near water; beaver ponds, wooded swamps and marshes. Requires habitat containing trees with natural cavities for nesting.

Diet:  Mainly flying insects such as flies, beetles, moths, flying ants, and dragonflies. Also, seeds and wild berries.

  Songs and calls of the Tree Swallow

Additional Information

Tree Swallow
Habitat, diet, feeding behavior, nesting, migration, and conservation status of this bird. Includes range map, photos, and songs and calls. (From Audubon Field Guide)

Tree Swallow

Tree Swallow

By Chumlee [CC SA 2.0]

Tree Swallow
Identification Tips

  • Tiny bill
  • Iridescent blue-green upperparts
  • White underparts
  • Forked tail
  • Female duller than male
  • Juvenile dull brown above and may have hint of a gray breast band
  • Most often seen flying
  • Nests in cavities near water
  • Often found in large flocks

(Credit: U. S. Geological Survey)


Breeding Bird Survey Map,
2011-2015

Tree Swallow

(Image credit: USGS)


Range in New England

During breeding season, the Tree Sparrow is found throughout New England.


Christmas Bird Count Map
Historical CBC Map from USGS