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Key information: Barn Swallows are one of the first migrants to arrive in Cyprus in spring. They can be seen flying very fast and very low, right above the ground, chasing insects. Males have a longer tail than the females. During migration, thousands of Barn Swallows pass through Cyprus, and many stay here to nest in cities or villages. Their nest has the shape of a cup and is made of mud and twigs.

Length: 17 – 21 cm

Habitat: Towns and villages, farmland, mountains and forests, wetlands

When they can be seen: Spring, summer, autumn

What they eat: Invertebrates

In Cyprus: Can be seen all over Cyprus.

Status: Migrant breeder, passage migrant

Illustration by Paschalis Dougalis