About Cliff Swallows...

Ah, American Cliff Swallows! A sign of Spring for many! Some also consider them a nuisance when they are great birds and their nests are temporary since they're just passing through. However, did you know Swallows are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the state of California?! They are! Which makes their nest illegal to knock down or even touch during the nesting season which is February 15th to September 1st without a permit from the Fish and Game Dept. The Fish and Game Dept. will only issue a permit under extreme circumstances such as health or safety hazards, and the entire process is strictly monitored.


••Knocking down a Swallows nest could cost you, THE FINE IS $15,000 OR UP TO 6 MONTHS IN JAIL!•• If you know of someone who has, is, or planning to destroy a Swallows nest, please do not hesitate to call Tri County Wildlife Care ASAP @ 209-283-EAGL(3245).


**They're great birds!

• They eat 60 insects per hour, 850 a day!!
  
• A group of swallows has many collective nouns, including a "gulp", "herd", "kettle", "richness", and "sord" of swallows.
  
• Many baby and parent swallows learn each other's voices and stay together over migration. This is one reason why parent birds are so much better at raising their babies than even the most knowledgeable rehabbers.
  
• Swallows drink mid-flight; as they fly over water they dip their bill to the surface to drink.
  

To learn more about these fascinating little creatures, check this page out!

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