Barn Swallow
Hirundo rustica
At the scavenger hunt: If you go to the south side of this middle building, you can spot a nest under the roof. This could be a Barn Swallow nest, since it is by a man-made structure and it is covered in mud, which is how Barn Swallows usually make their nests.
Identification:
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Usually found in man-made structures, rough wood is preferable
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Identifiable by its blue and brown head, and off-white body
Species status:
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IUCN Red List: Least Concern
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Ontario Species at Risk status: Threatened
Future climate change effects:
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Temperature extremes
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Can affect both wintering areas and breeding areas, making it very difficult for them to raise their young
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How to support the Bank Swallow population in your area:
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Create birdhouses and plant trees that Barn Swallows prefer
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Stop the use of pesticides and herbicides near Barn Swallow habitats
To learn about what the TRCA is doing to help the Barn Swallow, click here.

