Tree Swallow

Tree Swallow ~Photography by Caitlyn Sippel

The Tree Swallow is one of the more common of its species in North America and can be found from coast to coast. The population size fluctuates depending on how many nesting sites are available, as Tree Swallows depend on abandoned woodpecker holes in dead trees or artificial nestboxes made for them by humans. They live up to 11 years and their flocks are large in size. Tree Swallows have a wingspan of 30-35 cm and can grow to be 13-15 cm long.

Voice:

Tree Swallows have a variable voice, from their high, chirping notes to soft trills. They also can whistle complex high two-note phrases.

Watch this video to hear the Tree Swallow's voice:

Nesting:

They nest in abandoned woodpecker holes, nest boxes... or (as seen below) mail boxes, Tree Swallows layer their nests with fine plant matter and line them with feathers. They lay 4-6 eggs in 1 brood from May to July.

Watch a nest of baby Tree Swallows in a mailbox:

Feeding:

Tree Swallows love to catch flying insects from dawn until dusk, but will also eat bayberries.