Lesser Striped Swallow

Cecropis abyssinica

Lowveld. Cap, ear coverts and rump rich orange; below white, well streaked black.

Not Endemic

Description

Common summer resident; some present all year. Differs from [Greater Striped Swallow] in more heavily streaked underparts, appearing very dark in the field, and orange cap extending over the ear coverts. Flight call is a characteristic descending series of four notes ‘eh-eh-eh-eh’. Pairs and small flocks occur near rivers, bridges, road culverts and buildings. Flies more actively than [Greater Striped Swallow], with less gliding. Perches frequently in trees or on wires.

Quick Facts

Bird Family

Small, long-winged, aerial-feeding birds. Swallows have mostly glossy-blue upperparts (some with rufous caps) and whitish, rufous or streaked underparts; the blackish saw-wing swallows are an exception. Saw-wings have rough, saw-like leading edges to their primary feathers (not apparent in the field). In all species, immatures are duller than adults. They build nests with mud pellets or burrow tunnels in banks or cliffs; they drink and bathe in flight by skimming the surface of still water, and perch to rest. For comparison, see swifts.