The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is a bird belonging to the family swallows (Hirundinidae). It is the most widespread species of this family; its range covers almost the entire world, with seven subspecies. The barn swallow is a striking sight because of its blue-black plumage with long outer tail feathers and because of its great agility in flight while hunting flying insects.
The barn swallow spends a large part of its life in the air. It is a migratory bird that travels large distances. The barn swallow spends the winter in Africa, South America or the south of Asia. In spring, it migrates to Europe, North America or the north of Asia for breeding. The barn swallow breeds in rural areas with sufficient water. Couples build their nest of mud mixed with saliva in all kinds of human constructions such as barns and bridges. They raise two or three broods during the breeding season, before returning to their wintering areas.
For thousands of years, the barn swallow has lived in the vicinity of humans, as evidenced by references in Old World literature. As an herald of spring, the barn swallow is seen by many farmers as a bringer of good luck, while for sailors it is the symbol of a safe journey home.
Hello, nice that you take a look in my shop. So my name is Gert Hilbink, living in Coevorden. I have been doing photography since I was 13, inspired by a biology teacher at the then U.L.O. school in Coevorden. Generally I mainly photograph nature but actually.. Read more…