Swallows and Martins
Order: Passeriformes. Family: Hirundinidae
The Hirundinidae family is a group of passerines characterized by their adaptation to aerial feeding. Their adaptations include a slender streamlined body, long pointed wings and short bills with wide gape. The feet are designed for perching rather than walking, and the front toes are partially joined at the base. There are about 75 species worldwide and 5 species which occur in Ireland plus one in Category D.
| Common name | Binomial | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Purple Martin | Progne subis | (Cat. D1) |
| Sand Martin | Riparia riparia | |
| Cliff Swallow | Petrochelidon pyrrhonota | (A) |
| Barn Swallow | Hirundo rustica | |
| Red-rumped Swallow | Cecropis daurica | (A) |
| Common House-Martin | Delichon urbica |
Read more about this topic: List Of Birds Of Ireland
Famous quotes containing the word swallows:
“At a wavering instant the swallows gave way to bats
By the Ponte Vecchio . . .
Changing guard.”
—D.H. (David Herbert)