What is a "swallow"?

A swallow is a migratory bird known for its graceful flight and distinctive forked tail. These agile avians belong to the family Hirundinidae and are found across the globe in diverse habitats, including fields, forests, and urban areas. Swallows have streamlined bodies, long wings, and pointed wings that enable them to navigate the air with incredible speed and precision. They are excellent insect hunters, swooping and diving to catch their prey on the wing. Swallows are known for their aerial acrobatics, performing intricate flight patterns and impressive maneuvers. Their plumage is often characterized by shades of blue, black, and white, with some species featuring rufous or chestnut accents. Swallows are also known for their melodious songs, which they use for communication and attracting mates. These birds are highly migratory, traveling long distances between their breeding and wintering grounds.