zwaluw

Zwaluw is the Dutch word for swallow, a common name for a group of passerine birds in the family Hirundinidae. These birds are characterized by their streamlined bodies, long pointed wings, and forked tails, which are adaptations for aerial hunting. Swallows are found worldwide, except for the extreme polar regions, and are renowned for their acrobatic flight.

There are over 70 species of swallows, belonging to various genera. Some well-known examples include the Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica), the House Martin (Delichon urbicum), and the Sand Martin (Riparia riparia). Many species are migratory, traveling long distances between their breeding grounds in temperate regions and their wintering grounds in warmer climates. Their diet consists primarily of flying insects, which they expertly catch on the wing.

Swallows often build their nests from mud, which they collect and mix with saliva. These nests can be cup-shaped, gourd-shaped, or even tubular, depending on the species. Some species, like the House Martin, build their nests attached to buildings, while others, like the Sand Martin, excavate burrows in riverbanks or cliffs. The presence of swallows is often associated with human settlements, as they benefit from the availability of nesting sites and insects attracted to agricultural areas. The term "zwaluw" in Dutch specifically refers to these birds, and their presence is a familiar sight in the Dutch landscape, particularly during the warmer months.