The white-headed saw-wing, also known as the white-headed rough-winged swallow is a species of bird in the family Hirundinidae. It is found in Angola, Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
Region
East and Central Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Ethiopian Highlands south through the Albertine Rift and Great Lakes region into northern Zambia and adjacent areas. Favors montane and submontane zones with forest edges, clearings, river gorges, and open country near water. Common along streams, in upland valleys, and around cultivated patches within highland mosaics. Often seen coursing over ridgelines and above the forest canopy, especially after rains when insects are abundant.
Altitude Range
600–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for the minute serrations on the outer primaries, saw-wings can produce a subtle rasping sound in fast flight. The striking white head contrasts sharply with the otherwise glossy dark body, making it one of the easier African swallows to identify. It typically nests in small colonies in earthen banks or road cuttings, excavating short burrows.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile glides
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups or loose flocks, sometimes mixing with other swallows and swifts over feeding areas. Breeds in small colonies, excavating burrows in vertical banks or using pre-existing holes. Both parents participate in nest building and chick rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of dry trills and buzzy twittering notes given in flight. Calls are soft but persistent over feeding areas, with sharper chips near colonies.
Plumage
Glossy blackish to blue-black body with a clean, contrasting white head; plumage is sleek and close-fitting like other swallows.
Diet
Feeds almost entirely on small aerial insects, including flies, winged ants, termites, and beetles. Captures prey on the wing with quick, agile twists and turns. Often exploits insect emergences after rainfall and may follow moving swarms.
Preferred Environment
Most commonly forages over rivers, streams, forest edges, and hill slopes where rising air concentrates insects. Also hunts above open pasture and cultivation within montane landscapes.
