Barn swallows of different subspecies resting together 19 Jul 2026

Perched on slender reeds, a group of barn swallows gathers in a moment of stillness that contrasts with their usual speed. Known for swift, acrobatic flight and deeply forked tails, these birds are built for life on the wing. They catch insects mid-air and travel vast distances between continents. Subtle variations in colour and markings suggest that more than one subspecies may be present, reflecting the barn swallow"s extensive global range.

© Oscar Dominguez/Tandem Stills + Motion

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