Gólyák

Gólyák is a Hungarian term for swallows, a group of small to medium-sized passerine birds belonging to the family Hirundinidae. In Hungary the most familiar species is the barn swallow (Hirundo rustica), which breeds across Europe, Asia and Africa and undertakes long seasonal migrations.

Swallows are slender, aerial insectivores with long, pointed wings and deeply forked tails. Adults typically show glossy blue-black upperparts and lighter underparts, often with a rusty or pale throat and forehead. Juveniles are duller and more brownish. They are strong fliers, capable of catching insects on the wing with rapid, agile movements.

Diet and behavior: swallows feed mainly on flying insects, catching prey in mid-air during long, fast flights. They are social birds, especially during the breeding season, and many species nest in colonies. They often use mud to construct cup-shaped nests on vertical surfaces such as building walls, bridges, or cliffs.

Habitat, reproduction and migration: barn swallows prefer open country near water, with abundant insects, and readily adapt to human-made structures for nesting. They breed in spring and early summer, with clutch sizes typically around 4–6 eggs. Incubation is led by the female for about 12–16 days, and fledging occurs roughly 16–22 days after hatching. Most swallows migrate to warmer regions in autumn, wintering in Africa or southern Asia, depending on the species.

Conservation: swallows are not universally endangered, but populations can be affected by habitat loss, pesticide use, and reduction of suitable nesting sites. Conservation measures include preserving and creating nesting opportunities on buildings and mitigating insecticide exposure.