Tree Swallow

The Feather Files
Name: Tree Swallow
Species: Tachycineta bicolor
Native to and Migration: Birds from the Canadian prairies may follow the Mississippi River southward into Central America.
Date Seen: May 4, 2013;  May 21, 2017
Location: Alberta: Hidden Valley, Siksika Nation; Rocky View County

Tree Swallows are distinctive birds with their white undersides, iridescent blue-green backs, and moderately forked tails. The species modifier, bicolor, refers to the two solid, contrasting colors of its back and belly.

Their diet is primarily insects, which they catch on the wing. If they stay in an area after the insects are gone, they will eat berries or seeds.