Michael J. Treola Photography

The Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota) is a member of the passerine bird family Hirundinidae ? the swallows and martins. This bird averages 5 inches long with a tiny bill. The adult has an iridescent blue back and crown, brown wings and tail, and buff rump. The nape and forehead are white. The underparts are white except for a red face. Cliff Swallows breed in large colonies. They build conical mud nests and lay 3-6 eggs. The natural nest sites are on cliffs, bidges and docks preferably beneath overhangs