Sri Lanka boasts a remarkable array of endemic birds, including the vibrant Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, the elusive Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush, and the striking Sri Lanka Junglefowl. With diverse habitats, the island fosters a unique avian biodiversity, making it a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts and conservation efforts.
The Ceylon Swallow (Cecropis hyperythra), also known as the Sri Lanka Swallow, is a small passerine bird native to Sri Lanka and the southern parts of India. It belongs to the family Hirundinidae, which includes swallows and martins. This species closely resembles the Red-rumped Swallow but can be distinguished by its darker plumage, richer rufous underparts, and more deeply forked tail. The Ceylon Swallow is typically found in open areas, including grasslands, wetlands, and near human settlements, where it builds its mud nests under eaves, bridges, and cliffs.
These birds are aerial insectivores, catching flying insects mid-air with their swift and agile flight. They are often seen in pairs or small flocks, gracefully gliding across the sky with rapid wingbeats. Their call is a soft, twittering sound, similar to other swallows. Despite their relatively small range, they are not considered threatened, as they adapt well to human-altered landscapes. The presence of the Ceylon Swallow in an area is often a sign of a healthy ecosystem, as they help control insect populations naturally.
