White-backed Swallow
Cheramoeca leucosterna
EndemicStatus
UncommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The White-backed Swallow is an eye-catching black-and-white swallow found across Australia’s open inland regions. Easily recognised by its bold contrasting plumage, this species is well adapted to arid and semi-arid landscapes, often seen gliding above grasslands and sandy banks.
Fun Facts
White-backed Swallows are expert burrowers, digging tunnels up to 6 cm long for their nests.
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
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.
Physical Attributes
Height
15 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds20%
Top Locations
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