Hirundo daurica ( Red-rumped swallow - Μιλτοχελίδονο )

Hirundo daurica ( Red-rumped swallow - Μιλτοχελίδονο )
Marios Filippou - Akrotiri

The Red-rumped Swallow (Hirundo daurica) is a medium-sized swallow known for its distinctive reddish rump and elegant flight. It belongs to the Hirundinidae family and is closely related to the Barn Swallow but can be easily distinguished by its unique coloration and behavior.

Identification & Appearance

  • Size: About 16–18 cm in length, with a wingspan of 33 cm.
  • Coloration:
    • Glossy blue-black upperparts.
    • A pale, buff-colored rump (reddish in some individuals).
    • Creamy or rufous underparts with fine dark streaks.
    • Longer tail with a deeper fork than the House Martin.
  • Flight: Graceful, with long glides and quick, acrobatic movements while catching insects.

Distribution & Habitat

  • Found across southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
  • In Cyprus, it is a common passage migrant and a local breeder.
  • Prefers cliffs, gorges, open landscapes, and villages.
  • Often seen near water sources, where insects are abundant.

Red-rumped Swallow in Cyprus

  • Spring arrival: February to April.
  • Breeding season: April to July.
  • Autumn migration: August to October.
  • Winter presence: Some individuals overwinter in Cyprus, especially in coastal areas.

Breeding in Cyprus

  • Builds mud nests, but unlike House Martins, their nests have an enclosed flask-like entrance.
  • Nests are placed under cliffs, rock overhangs, bridges, and buildings.
  • Prefers quiet rural areas, mountain gorges, and coastal cliffs.
  • Lays 3–5 eggs, incubated mainly by the female.

Diet & Behavior

  • Feeds mainly on flying insects, caught in mid-air.
  • Frequently seen flying over rivers, lakes, and fields in search of food.
  • Often associates with Barn Swallows and House Martins in mixed flocks.

Conservation Status

  • Classified as Least Concern (LC) by the IUCN.
  • In Cyprus, the population is stable, though urbanization and reduced insect populations due to pesticides could pose future threats.

Where to Observe the Red-rumped Swallow (Hirundo daurica) in Cyprus

The Red-rumped Swallow is commonly seen in Cyprus during migration and in some areas where it breeds. Here are some of the best locations to observe them:

1. Troodos Mountains & Foothills

  • Why? Cliffs, gorges, and quiet rural areas provide excellent nesting spots.
  • Best spots:
    • Platres and surrounding valleys
    • Kakopetria and Kalopanayiotis
    • Paphos Forest

2. Akamas Peninsula & Paphos Region

  • Why? Open landscapes, cliffs, and rivers attract feeding swallows.
  • Best spots:
    • Avakas Gorge – a prime site with nesting birds.
    • Akamas coastal cliffs – good for watching them glide along the coast.
    • Xeros River Valley near Asprokremmos Dam – a reliable feeding area.

3. Larnaca & Famagusta Wetlands

  • Why? Abundant insects over wetlands attract large numbers of swallows.
  • Best spots:
    • Larnaca Salt Lake – especially during migration.
    • Achnas Dam – good for mixed swallow flocks.
    • Paralimni Lake – a good site in spring and autumn.

4. Cape Greco & Cliffs Along the Coast

  • Why? Coastal cliffs and caves are ideal for nesting.
  • Best spots:
    • Cape Greco cliffs and caves
    • Petra tou Romiou (Aphrodite’s Rock) – swallows often nest in rock crevices.

5. Polis & Akamas Inland Valleys

  • Why? Rural villages, farmlands, and water sources provide good feeding grounds.
  • Best spots:
    • Evretou Dam and valley
    • Droushia and Ineia cliffs
    • Argaka and Gialia areas

Best Time to Observe

  • Spring (February–May): Large numbers arrive during migration and start nesting.
  • Summer (June–August): Breeding season; easier to see nesting behavior.
  • Autumn (September–October): Post-breeding flocks gather before migrating south.