File:Red Rumped Swallow.jpg

English: The red-rumped swallow, a diminutive passerine of the swallow family, inhabits open hilly regions across temperate southern Europe and Asia, ranging from Portugal and Spain to Japan, India, Sri Lanka, and tropical Africa. While Indian and African populations remain resident, their European and Asian counterparts embark on seasonal migrations.

Distinguished by its vibrant plumage, the red-rumped swallow boasts a deeply forked tail, a pale orangish rump, black squared-off undertail coverts, and a partial orange collar. However, appearance can vary markedly across its range: European and African specimens exhibit clean whitish or orangish underparts, while Asian counterparts feature extensive streaking below. Notably, juveniles tend to be paler and lack pronounced orangish hues, occasionally resembling house-martins, though their distinctive forked tail sets them apart.

During the breeding season, these birds often display brighter plumage to attract mates and convey vitality. Research suggests that the vivid colors of male swallows correspond to heightened testosterone levels, indicating robust health and reproductive fitness. Feathers serve as a crucial means of communication among birds, particularly during courtship rituals. Male red-rumped swallows utilize their colorful plumage to court females, who are predisposed to select partners with vibrant feathers a trait signaling strength and genetic quality. Additionally, the intensity of a bird's plumage can reflect its access to nourishment, offering valuable insights into its overall health and suitability as a mate.

This bird was photographed at Bhigwan, Maharashtra, India