Adult

Description

Size:  5.25”

Plumage/Description:  Males are pure white on the underside, along with a prominent white cheek, and white rump patches.  Head and back are a bright green color. Wings and tail are a violet color.  This species’ name accurately reflects is plumage, violet and green.  Females are more muted in color.  The head, and wings are dark, but not colorful like the males.

Habitat:  Ponderosa/Coniferous, Riparian/Deciduous

Time of year:  Spring, Summer, Fall.

Relative Abundance:  Common

Behavior:  Like other swallow species this species is an aerial gleaner, catching insects in flight.  Violet-green Swallows are cavity nesters, in this region they prefer nesting in ponderosa pine trees.

Diet:  Insects

Similar species:  Other swallow species found in the area

Best Sites:  Goldwater Lake, Lynx Lake, Watson Woods, Watson Lakes