Bahama Swallow

The Bahama swallow, Tachycineta cyaneoviridis, presents a striking appearance with its glossy green head and back, complemented by blue upper wings. The tail and wingtips are a contrasting black, while the underparts, including the belly and chin, are a pure white.

Distribution and Habitat

Endemic to The Bahamas, this swallow breeds exclusively in the pineyards of Andros, Grand Bahama, Abaco, and New Providence. However, the population on New Providence has dwindled, possibly to the point of local extinction. During the winter months, the Bahama swallow can be found throughout the eastern Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Islands. It is a rare sight elsewhere, occasionally seen as a vagrant in south Florida, the Florida Keys, Cuba, and even South America.

Behaviour

The Bahama swallow is somewhat adaptable to urban environments, though it remains true to its pineyard breeding grounds. While it does not breed in marshlands and fields, these areas are crucial for foraging, as the swallow feeds on flying insects in these open spaces.

Reproduction

Nesting occurs in cavities previously excavated by the West Indian woodpecker in Caribbean pine trees. The nest is constructed from pine needles, twigs from Casuarina trees, and grass, and is lined with feathers from other passerine birds. Clutches typically consist of three eggs, with an incubation period of 15 days and a fledging period of approximately 22 days.

Diet and Feeding

As with other swallows, the Bahama swallow's diet consists primarily of flying insects, which it captures with remarkable aerial agility.

Conservation Status

The Bahama swallow is currently classified as Endangered, facing threats that could lead to its extinction if conservation measures are not effectively implemented.