Sri Lanka Swallow Cecropis hyperythra Scientific name definitions

13–14 cm. Adult is much like formerly conspecific C. daurica, being very dark glossy blue above, with deep rufous rump and underparts that possess no or only faint streaks, and lacks any hint of a distinct chestnut hindcollar; tail-streamers shorter than in <em>C. daurica</em> . Sexes alike. Juvenile tends to be duller above and below, with even less streaking and even shorter tail-streamers.

Sri Lanka.

Diet has not been described, but is presumably similar to that of other Cecropis species, especially formerly conspecific C. daurica. Forages usually alone, in pairs or in small groups; mixes with other hirundines. Feeds both low over vegetation and high up; flight slow, with frequent gliding and soaring.

Season mainly Mar–Jul, but also recorded Nov–Jan. Usually solitary, sometimes loose groups of a few pairs. Displaying male circles, with calling, around female, if she perches he may perch nearby and sing, sometimes displaying tail. Nest built by both sexes, enclosed, with tunnel entrance, made of mud pellets , sometimes with a little dry grass admixed, lined with mixture of feathers, hair, plant down, leaves or dry grass; usually affixed to underside of horizontal surface of natural or artificial site, e.g. cliff, rock face, cave, culvert, bridge; nests reused in same and successive seasons. Clutch 2–3 eggs, incubation by both sexes, but no further information.

Not globally threatened (Least Concern). Restricted-range species: found solely in the Sri Lanka EBA. Considered to be generally common and no significant threats are known.