02 June, 2010

Northern Rough-winged Swallow


Scientific Name: Stelgidopteryx serripennis

Population Estimate: 15M

Range / Habitat: Summers in the entire US. Can winter in parts along the Gulf Coast but primarily found in the Yucatan and Central America. Favors inland wetlands including rivers and streams. 

Field Notes: Somewhat dull plumage for a swallow -- brown above and white below. It is similar to a Sand Martin but without the brown band across the chest.

Personal Notes: As our birding skills have increased we have been able to identify this bird on our own. We required a guide the first few times in San Blas, Mexico and Salt Lake City. By the time we saw this bird in Minnesota, it was an old friend.

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