chelidon

Chelidon is a genus of Old World swallows in the family Hirundinidae. The genus name Chelidon is derived from the Greek word for swallow, "chelidon." These birds are known for their long, pointed wings, forked tails, and aerial insectivorous feeding habits. They are migratory birds, spending their breeding season in temperate regions and migrating to warmer climates for the winter.

The genus Chelidon currently contains two recognized species. The first is the barn swallow (Chelidon rustica), which is one of the most widespread and recognizable swallow species in the Northern Hemisphere. It breeds across North America, Europe, and Asia, and winters in Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. The barn swallow is characterized by its deeply forked tail and rufous underparts.

The second species is the Pacific swallow (Chelidon tahitica), which breeds in Southeast Asia and Oceania and winters in Australia and New Zealand. It is similar in appearance to the barn swallow but typically has a darker, more uniform rufous or white underbelly and a less deeply forked tail.

Chelidon swallows are often found near human settlements, nesting on artificial structures such as barns, bridges, and buildings. Their nests are typically cup-shaped and constructed from mud pellets. They are social birds, often seen foraging in flocks, and their swift, agile flight makes them adept at catching insects on the wing. The genus has undergone taxonomic revisions, with some sources formerly including other swallow species under the Chelidon umbrella.