Vertebrate (Inventory)/Birds/Swallows

From LagWiki

Swallows silhouetted against the light from a cave entrance

The Swallows subfield of the Vertebrate Birds section is used to record any observation of cave swallows.

Cave Swallows (hirundo fulva) usually nest just inside the entrance area of caves during the spring, summer and fall months. They rarely venture deeper than the twilight portion and are most active during the day. They prefer larger openings and high ceilings. Mud nests high on the walls and ceiling; feathers, twigs, grass and small broken egg shells on the floor; stains from droppings and noticeable chirping noises are all indications of swallows. When swallows are present, the signs are usually obvious and a musty smell or odor may be present. During the day, they can often be seen flying especially when silhouetted against the light from the entrance.

References

• Various (June 2004) Core Values Carlsbad Caverns National Park; as published by Bob Hoff: http://carlsbadcavernshistory.blogspot.com/2011/05/carlsbad-caverns-national-park-core.html

Swallows, Birds, Vertebrate

Swallow egg shell, droppings, feathers, etc.

Swallow on a mud nest