Barn Swallow

Hirundo rustica

18 cm

33 cm

minor concern

inside urban centres
flying through the sky

insects, larvae, worms
beetles

very common

Contrary to popular belief, swallows (like other birds) do not migrate because they cannot withstand low temperatures. They are covered with feathers that are a great thermal insulator. It seems that the reason for this migration is because the cold kills the mosquitoes and they are forced to look for warmer places to feed.

“Orenell terrer, pluja ve”. Seeing the swallows flying at ground level possibly indicates that rain is coming, as the humidity in the air sticks to the mosquitoes’ wings and makes it difficult for them to fly. Swallows can therefore help us to make a possible weather prediction.