Hello, everyone! I was once asked by a friend, “We don’t see swallows in winter, but where are they?” Today, I’d like to talk about a bird close to our hearts, the “Swallow”.
Swallows are about 17 cm in length, and both males and females are of the same color, though males have longer tails. They feed on flying insects and build their nests on man-made structures. These bowl-shaped nests are made of mud and dry grass and are where they lay their eggs.
In spring and summer, we see swallows busily raising their young under the eaves of houses. However, in October, they embark on a journey to warmer southern countries. Swallows bred in Japan or born there spend their winters in places like the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, and southern Vietnam, returning to Japan in spring.
In winter, large groups of thousands of swallows can be seen roosting on power lines overnight in various parts of Southeast Asia. It’s truly amazing that these birds, weighing only about 20 grams, undertake such long journeys across the seas!
Interestingly, European swallows spend their winters in Africa, while American swallows head to South America. Research has also shown fascinating findings, such as the length of the tail and the redness of the chest being attractive traits to females.
It’s surprising that most swallows returning to Japan come back to the same place. Research into the migration of swallows is ongoing, so we may discover more in the future. Let’s continue to support their incredible journey!
