Least Concern

A small swallow, about 15–17 cm in length, with long wire-like tail streamers in adults. It has metallic blue upperparts, rufous forehead and throat, and white underparts. Both sexes look similar, though females have slightly shorter tail streamers.

Partly migratory species — widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.

Northern populations move southwards during winter. In India, many are resident along rivers and wetlands, while others show seasonal dispersal.

Breeds mainly from March to July, coinciding with the pre-monsoon and early monsoon. Nests are mug-shaped mud structures, often attached to riverbanks, buildings, or under bridges. Clutch size is usually 3–4 eggs.

Prefers riverbanks, lakes, and wetlands, often nesting on vertical mud walls or man-made structures near water.

Found in open habitats near freshwater, including rivers, ponds, lakes, irrigation canals, and reservoirs. Frequently seen flying low over water catching insects.

Entirely insectivorous, feeding on flying insects like mosquitoes, flies, and midges. Catches prey on the wing with agile, acrobatic flight.