Streak-throated Swallow

The streak-throated swallow or the Indian cliff swallow (Petrochelidon fluvicola) is a passerine bird, which includes a large number of other species including many swallows. It is native of South Asia where it is a breeder, year-round resident or winter visitor in the countries of Afghanistan, India, Nepal and Pakistan. It occurs as a vagrant in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and the Middle East. The streak-throated swallow is a sparrow-sized bird about 11 cm in length. It has a dull chestnut forehead and crown. The underparts are whitish, the upper feathers are steel-blue. The rump is pale brown and the tail has a square end. The brown streaks on the throat and chest are distinctive and used to differentiate from other similar birds. On cold mornings, large flocks are seen closely-packed on electric wires to catch the early sun. Its voice is a twittering chirp while perched. In flight, it utters a sharp trr-trr.