Barn Swallow vs White-browed Sparrow-Weaver

In short

The Barn Swallow is a sleek, aerial insectivore with a distinctive long, forked tail and glossy steel-blue upperparts, while the White-browed Sparrow-Weaver is a terrestrial, social bird with a stout bill and a prominent white eyebrow. These species differ significantly in both appearance and behavior, making them relatively easy to distinguish in the field.

Identification tips

• Tail Shape: Barn Swallow's long, deeply forked tail is a key feature; White-browed Sparrow-Weaver lacks this.
• Head Markings: Look for the Barn Swallow's rufous-chestnut forehead and throat versus the Sparrow-Weaver's white eyebrow.
• Behavior: Note the Barn Swallow's aerial feeding versus the Sparrow-Weaver's ground foraging in groups.
• Habitat: Consider the habitat; Barn Swallows prefer open areas near water, while Sparrow-Weavers are in dry savannas.

Size

Barn Swallow is medium-sized (17–19 cm) with a slender build, whereas the White-browed Sparrow-Weaver is stockier and slightly larger.

Plumage

Barn Swallow has glossy steel-blue upperparts, rufous-chestnut forehead and throat, and creamy or buffy white underparts. In contrast, the White-browed Sparrow-Weaver features a prominent white eyebrow, brownish upperparts, and a black bill.

Behaviour

Barn Swallows are agile fliers often seen catching insects mid-air, while White-browed Sparrow-Weavers are ground foragers, often seen in groups.

Habitat

Barn Swallows are typically found in open areas, often near water, whereas White-browed Sparrow-Weavers inhabit dry savannas and open woodlands.

Voice

Barn Swallows have a series of twittering calls, while White-browed Sparrow-Weavers produce a variety of chirps and whistles.