Tree Swallow - Ross Feldner

This shimmering, sleek little swallow is a migratory bird that breeds in the US and Canada. It nests in isolated pairs or loose groups in both natural and artificial cavities.

It is an aerial insectivore that forages both in groups and alone, eating mostly insects, but will also eat spiders and fruit.

Although under threat from human activities, such as deforestation and the acidification of lakes, the Tree Swallow is considered to be least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. However, they do lead a hard life. About 79% of individuals do not survive their first year, and those that do face an annual mortality rate of 40% to 60%.

Its song consists of three parts: the chirp, the whine, and the gurgle which may be repeated or omitted, and all can stand alone. The chatter call is used to advertise nest sites and the alarm call is in response to predators and intruders. The alarm call helps induce nestlings to crouch and stop begging as a predator is near.

Tree Swallows breed in open or semi-open areas that provide nesting sites and a good supply of flying insects. These areas are usually close to water, such as ponds or marshes.