The black-capped swallow is a species of bird in the family Hirundinidae. It is found in Chiapas, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and heavily degraded former forest.
Region
Central American Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs from Chiapas (southern Mexico) through the highlands of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. Favors subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, pine–oak edges, and adjacent open areas such as pastures and coffee plantations. Commonly forages along ridgelines, over valleys, and at forest gaps where aerial insects concentrate. Nest sites include cliffs, sinkholes, caves, and man-made structures. It is generally local but can be fairly common where suitable habitat remains.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This highland swallow is often seen coursing over forest edges and clearings, snapping up insects on the wing with great agility. It frequently nests in small colonies in natural crevices, caves, road cuttings, or building nooks. The contrasting black cap gives it a distinctive look even at a distance. It is generally considered of low conservation concern but depends on intact montane habitats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
agile flier with rapid, shallow wingbeats and quick glides
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups or loose flocks, especially near nesting sites. Nests colonially or in small clusters in cavities, crevices, and man-made structures. Likely monogamous, with both parents attending the nest. Roosts communally outside the breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Produces soft, high-pitched twittering and rapid chips during flight. Vocalizations are more frequent around colonies and during aerial chases, forming a light, tinkling chorus.
Plumage
Glossy blue-black upperparts with a sharply contrasting black cap; clean white underparts. The contrast between the dark crown and the white throat and belly is striking, with a sleek, satiny sheen above.
Diet
Consumes small aerial insects such as flies, beetles, winged ants, and other swarming arthropods. Captures prey almost exclusively on the wing using a wide gape. Forages at varying heights, from canopy level to above ridgelines, depending on insect availability. May associate with mixed-species swallow flocks where food is abundant.
Preferred Environment
Feeds over forest edges, clearings, open pastures, coffee plantations, and along cliffs and ravines. Often concentrates where updrafts and thermals carry insects or near watercourses where emergent insects are common.
