With six subspecies, the Barn Swallow is said to be the most widespread species of swallow in the world. It can be found in almost any continent except Australia. It is unique from other American swallows because of its forked tail and rust-colored under parts. Its other features include curved and pointed wings, steel blue upper parts, and elongated tail feathers. The females tend to have shorter tails.
Barn Swallows usually nest in barns, outbuildings, and under bridges. Their natural habitat is open countries with low vegetation and they avoid heavily wooded areas. During winters, they prefer more cosmopolitan areas. They feed on insects, particularly flies, ants and aphids.
In making feeders for Barn Swallows, make sure you have a 2 by 8 ledge, approximately 8 high gable roof, an open front, and partially open sides. Place the feeder about ten feet high from the ground. Do not put it in a tree as other animals like cats can climb to it and scare the Barn Swallows. It is also a good idea to make durable boxes that closely resemble the nests Barn Swallows make themselves. Just remember to put enough space between the nests if you’re making nests for more than one Barn Swallow.