top of page

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:

  • Usually found in man-made structures, rough wood is preferable

  • Identifiable by its blue and brown head, and off-white body

Species status:

  • IUCN Red List: Least Concern

  • Ontario Species at Risk status: Threatened

Future climate change effects:

  • Temperature extremes

    • Can affect both wintering areas and breeding areas, making it very difficult for them to raise their young

How to support the Bank Swallow population in your area:

  • Create birdhouses and plant trees that Barn Swallows prefer

  • 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.

barnswallow.jpg

Website made as part of a Toronto Zoo Climate Action Learning and Leadership Project

bottom of page