Are Swallows Protected in California

A Look at California’s Swallows

California hosts a variety of swallow species, each with unique characteristics and habits:

The Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) is easily identified by its deeply forked tail, iridescent blue-black back, and warm buff-colored underside. They are renowned for constructing mud nests in sheltered locations like barns, bridges, and under eaves.

The Cliff Swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota) sports a square tail, a distinctive white forehead patch, and a reddish-brown rump. These social birds build gourd-shaped mud nests, often in large colonies on cliffs, bridges, and dams.

The Tree Swallow (Tachycineta bicolor) displays striking iridescent blue-green plumage and prefers open habitats near water sources. They typically nest in natural tree cavities and readily utilize provided nest boxes.

The Violet-green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) is similar in appearance to the Tree Swallow but also boasts iridescent green upperparts but is distinguished by white cheek patches. They share a preference for tree cavities and also utilize rock crevices for nesting.

The Northern Rough-winged Swallow (Stelgidopteryx serripennis) is a more subtly colored swallow, with plain brown plumage and a slightly notched tail. They favor open woodlands and areas along rivers and streams, nesting in burrows within earthen banks and cliffs.

The Bank Swallow (Riparia riparia), the smallest swallow species in North America, is brown above and white below with a distinctive brown band across the breast. They are colonial nesters, excavating burrows in sandy banks and forming large colonies.

Legal Protection Under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act

All native swallow species in the United States, including those inhabiting Riverside, California, are federally protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 (MBTA). This crucial legislation prohibits the taking, possessing, importing, exporting, transporting, selling, purchasing, or bartering of any migratory bird, their parts, nests, or eggs without a valid federal permit. This means it is illegal to intentionally harm or disturb swallows, their nests, or their eggs, even on private property.

Nesting Habitats and Migratory Patterns

Swallows occupy diverse habitats across Riverside County, ranging from coastal wetlands and riparian corridors to forests and open grasslands. Their nesting strategies are equally varied. Barn and Cliff Swallows are known for their intricate mud nests, while Tree and Violet-green Swallows opt for natural cavities or artificial nest boxes. Northern Rough-winged and Bank Swallows create burrows for nesting, demonstrating their adaptability to different environments.

Most swallow species are migratory birds, spending their breeding season in North America and migrating to warmer climates in Central and South America for the winter. These long-distance travelers often form large flocks during migration, creating spectacular aerial displays. Their spring arrival is a welcome sign of warmer weather, while their autumn departure marks the transition to winter.

Coexisting with These Beneficial Birds

Swallows are valuable members of our ecosystem, providing natural insect control. While their nesting habits can sometimes present minor inconveniences, it is essential to respect their protected status and appreciate their ecological contributions. If you need to discourage nesting in a specific location on your property, it’s best to implement preventative measures outside of the nesting season (after they have migrated). This could involve using netting, physically blocking access to nesting areas, or providing alternative nesting sites. It is always recommended to consult with local wildlife authorities or a licensed wildlife control professional for guidance on managing swallows legally and ethically.