Cliff Swallow song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Cliff Swallow, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A series of squeaky, chattering, and buzzing notes, often described as a 'churr-churr-churr' followed by a rapid, high-pitched 'zree-zree-zree'. It's not a melodious song but rather a complex series of vocalizations.

Calls

Common calls include a sharp 'cheer' or 'churr' used for contact within the colony, and a high-pitched 'zweet' alarm call given when predators are detected. They also emit a distinctive 'squeak' when approaching the nest.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, especially around the colony. Calls are frequent during foraging and migration as well.

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