Birdsong field guide
Southern Rough-winged Swallow
Stelgidopteryx ruficollis
A small, brown-backed aerial insectivore distinguished from its northern relative by a prominent rufous or cinnamon-colored throat.
What it sounds like
A short, dry, and raspy 'trrit' or 'zhrit', lacking melodic qualities.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- The outer primary feathers of adult males feature microscopic, recurved hooks that create a serrated edge, giving the bird its name.
- Unlike many other swallow species, it is typically a solitary nester rather than a colonial one.
- It often utilizes abandoned burrows of kingfishers, jacamars, or even iguanas for nesting sites.
- The species is largely sedentary throughout its tropical range, though southernmost populations exhibit austral migration.
- They are highly efficient foragers, capturing a wide variety of Hymenoptera and Diptera in low, sweeping flights over water.
Habitat
Open areas near water bodies, riverbanks, forest clearings, and suburban bridges.
Range
Central and South America, ranging from Honduras south to northern Argentina and Uruguay.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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