StatusNative
RarityCommon
Height15 cm
Weight15 g
Bird Gallery
1 / 8
Did You Know?
3 Facts1
"Welcome swallows can drink and bathe on the wing, skimming the water's surface mid-flight!"
Field Guide
Welcome Swallow
5 sections
The welcome swallow is a small, graceful bird that has become a familiar sight in New Zealand since self-introducing from Australia in the mid-20th century. About the size of a sparrow but with a more streamlined shape, these agile flyers are known for their swift, darting flight and distinctive forked tails. Their arrival in southern parts of the country is often seen as a herald of spring.
Distribution Map
Tap to enlarge
Diet
Track Your Sightings
Download Wingmate to log birds you spot and build your personal collection