Black Saw-wing

The black saw-wing, known scientifically as Psalidoprocne pristoptera, is a diminutive member of the swallow family. This avian species, also referred to as the blue saw-wing or black rough-winged swallow, is characterized by its sleek, blue-glossed black plumage and a distinctly forked tail, measuring a modest 13 to 15 centimeters in length.

Identification Tips

Both male and female black saw-wings share a similar appearance, though the female can be distinguished by her slightly shorter outer tail feathers and less pronounced wing serrations. The juvenile birds present a more subdued brown coloration with minimal gloss and shorter tails. Observers should note the white underwing coverts present in the northeastern races, which contrast with the dark underwings of other subspecies.

Habitat

The black saw-wing favors open wooded environments, showing a particular affinity for moist areas. Some races are also found in mountain grassland habitats, demonstrating the species' adaptability.

Distribution

This bird has a broad African range, from eastern Nigeria and Ethiopia, stretching southward to Angola, northern Zimbabwe, and northern Mozambique. The subspecies P. p. holomelaena extends its reach down southeastern Africa to the Cape in South Africa.

Behaviour

Typically encountered in pairs or small groups, black saw-wings are aerial insectivores, gracefully foraging in woodland clearings, above forests, or over bodies of water. Their flight may appear somewhat weak and fluttering. The species is generally quiet, but a soft 'chrrp' can be heard as an alarm call, with variations in contact calls noted among different subspecies.

Song & Calls

The black saw-wing communicates with a soft 'chrrp' alarm call. Contact calls vary, with P. p. holomelaena emitting a 'chirr chirr cheeeu' and the orientalis race producing a 'tseeu tseu tsss-ip'.

Breeding

Nests are crafted from grass or moss and situated within 30 to 60 centimeter long burrows in vertical sand or clay banks, often repurposing old burrows of other species. Clutches typically consist of two, occasionally three, white eggs. Incubation, likely performed by the female, spans 14 to 19 days, with fledging occurring after an additional 24 to 27 days.

Similar Species

The black saw-wing is part of a complex with several subspecies that some authorities consider separate species. Notable among these are the northeastern races with conspicuous white underwing coverts, potentially classified as the eastern rough-winged swallow or eastern saw-wing (P. orientalis).

Diet and Feeding

This species sustains itself by hunting flying insects, which it captures in flight in its preferred habitats.

Conservation status

The black saw-wing is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, indicating a stable population without immediate threats to its survival.