Lesser striped swallow

Introduction: Lesser striped swallows (Hirundo abyssinica amplifrmis) are often observed singly, in pairs or family groups in open grassy areas, forest edges and clearings, sparse woodland and open savannah. They are uncommon in urban and suburban areas.

Distribution: Northern Namibia only such as Epupa Falls, Rundu, Zambezi Region (formerly the Caprivi Strip).

Diet: Forages over grassland and woodland for insects disturbed by livestock activity. Plucks caterpillars from crops and eats fruit.

Description: Smaller than greater striped swallow, but has a paler but more chestnut coloured rump, with less heavily streaked underparts than its larger counterpart.

Breeding: Both male and female take up to 7 weeks to build a mud pellet bowl, lined with feathers and grass. Usually 3 eggs are laid year-round and incubated for up to 3 weeks.

Size: 18cm.

Weight: 17g.