Preuss's cliff swallow, also known as Preuss's swallow, is a species of bird in the family Hirundinidae.
Region
West and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from southeastern Nigeria through Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea into Gabon and the Congo Basin, with local populations in the Republic of the Congo and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It favors rocky escarpments, river gorges, and cliffs, but readily uses buildings, culverts, and bridges for nesting. Foraging takes place above rivers, forest edges, savanna mosaics, and open farmland. Colonies are typically near water and mud sources needed for nest construction.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Preuss's cliff swallow is a small, colonial swallow that builds gourd-shaped mud nests on cliffs and under man-made structures like bridges. It forages in fast, twisting flights over open areas and rivers, often in mixed flocks with other swallows and swifts. The species is named for the German naturalist Preuss, who collected widely in West-Central Africa. It is generally common where suitable nesting cliffs and abundant aerial insects are available.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, twisting flight
Social Behavior
Strongly colonial breeder; dozens to hundreds of pairs may nest in tight clusters. Nests are enclosed mud bottles with side entrances, attached to vertical surfaces under overhangs. Pairs are seasonally monogamous, and colonies show high site fidelity. Outside breeding, it forms flocks and may roost communally.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A mix of soft twitters and chattering notes, given in flight and around colonies. Calls accelerate into buzzy chatter during social interactions and alarm. Vocalizations are typical of cliff swallows and carry well around nesting sites.
