White-backed Swallow

1. White back and upper breast contrasting with black wings and belly

2. Deeply forked black tail and long, pointed wings

3. Short black bill and bold black-and-white pattern

These swallows feed on insects caught in flight, often flying low over open areas or creek beds. Breeding mainly occurs from July to December, with both parents excavating a horizontal tunnel in a sandy or earthen bank for their nest. Females typically lay four to six eggs per clutch, and both parents share incubation duties, which last about 14–16 days. The chicks fledge after another 14–16 days, and both parents care for them.

White-backed Swallows are found throughout arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, particularly in open country with sandy cliffs, riverbanks, road cuttings, and quarries. They are often seen in small flocks, especially around creek beds and exposed earth banks where they dig nesting tunnels.