The blue-and-white swallow is a passerine bird that breeds from Nicaragua south throughout South America, except in the deserts and the Amazon Basin. The southern race is migratory, wintering as far north as Trinidad, where it is a regular visitor. The nominate northern race may have bred on that island.
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from Nicaragua south through much of South America, absent mainly from the driest deserts and much of the central Amazon Basin. It frequents open and semi-open habitats, including forest edges, riversides, farmland, and urban areas. Readily adapts to human-modified landscapes, commonly foraging over towns and pastures and nesting on bridges and buildings. In the south of its range it is migratory, shifting northward in winter; elsewhere it is resident.
Altitude Range
0–4200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small swallow is widespread from southern Central America through much of South America, thriving around towns, bridges, cliffs, and open country. Southern populations migrate north in the austral winter, with regular wintering in places like Trinidad, while many northern birds are resident. It often nests on human structures and helps control flying insects. Pairs are typically monogamous and may reuse nest sites across years.
A blue-and-white swallow in an urban area in Brazil
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid wingbeats and quick glides
Social Behavior
Often seen in small flocks or loose groups, especially outside the breeding season. Nests singly or in small colonies on cliffs, culverts, and buildings, constructing a cup or using crevices lined with grasses and feathers. Pairs are generally monogamous and may return to traditional nest sites. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives a series of high, twittering chips and trills during flight. Song is a thin, bubbly warble interspersed with sharp contact notes, softer at the nest.
