Barn Swallow look-alikes
Hirundo rustica
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Barn Swallow. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Cliff Swallow
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota
Key differences
Barn Swallows have a deeply forked tail and rufous throat/forehead. Cliff Swallows have a square-tipped tail, a pale rump, and a dark throat with a pale forehead patch.
Cave Swallow
Petrochelidon fulva
Key differences
Similar to Cliff Swallow but with a more rufous throat and a less distinct pale rump. Barn Swallows are distinguished by their deeply forked tail and dark breast band.
Red-rumped Swallow
Cecropis daurica
Key differences
Red-rumped Swallows have a distinctive rufous rump and a less deeply forked tail than the Barn Swallow. Their underparts are also paler and less marked.
Welcome Swallow
Hirundo neoxena
Key differences
Found in Australia and New Zealand. Very similar in appearance to Barn Swallow, often considered conspecific or a very close relative. Key differences are subtle in plumage and tail streamer length, and their geographic ranges generally do not overlap in breeding areas.
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