The Cave Swallow is found in much of Texas and in southern New Mexico in the United States, and is also found in parts of Mexico, Cuba, and other locations in the Caribbean. In the United States, they are perhaps best known from the very large colony found in Carlsbad Caverns in New Mexico, a habitat they share with Mexican Free-tailed Bats. As a species they have likely benefited from a human presence. Highway underpasses and other bridges and man-made structure provide more suitable nesting locations than were naturally present before man came on the scene.
Habitat
Found in a variety of open habitats as long as suitable nesting environments are available. Nesting environments traditionally were caves or other crevices and protected stony places, but now include many man-made structures as well.
Diet
Feeds on insects
Behavior
Forages for insects while in flight.
Nesting
The nest of a Cave Swallow is an enclosed structure of mud and clay, lined with softer vegetative material or feathers. Nests were traditionally located in protected caves and crevices. The clutch consists of 3 to 5 eggs. Both parents help to incubate the eggs and feed the young upon hatching.
Song
The song of a Cliff Swallow is a series of warbling, buzzy phrases.
Migration
While some birds are permanent residents, those in the northern part of their range are migratory
Interactive eBird map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Cave Swallow sightings
Similar Species
Distinctive from most swallow species, except for the similar Cliff Swallow , which has a light-colored forehead and a dark throat.
Conservation Status
Population trends indicate increasing numbers of Cave Swallows, and there are no major conservation concerns. The IUCN lists the Cave Swallow as a species of "Least Concern".
Photo Information
Public domain image by Richard Bowdler Sharpe (1894)
Interactive eBird Map
Click to access the eBird species page for Cave Swallow
