Story: Birds of mountains and open country

Welcome swallow at nest

Welcome swallow at nest

Welcome swallows build their nests on vertical walls – natural or artificial – usually tucked close under a roof. The nests are made of mud, transported a beakful at a time and pressed into place row by row, giving a distinctive textured pattern. Dry grass leaves help hold it together. Only the female incubates and broods the young, but both adults feed the growing chicks.

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Department of Conservation
Reference: 10058082
Photograph by Peter Reese

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How to cite this page:

Christina Troup, 'Birds of mountains and open country - Welcome swallow', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/14024/welcome-swallow-at-nest (accessed 30 April 2024)

Story by Christina Troup, published 24 Sep 2007, reviewed & revised 17 Feb 2015