Cliff Swallow
Petrochelidon pyrrhonota
About the Cliff Swallow
The American cliff swallow (Petrochelidon pyrrhonota) is a member of the passerine bird family Hirundinidae consisting of both swallow and martin species. The scientific name is derived from Ancient Greek; Petrochelidon originates from the petros meaning "rock" and khelidon "swallow", pyrrhonota comes from purrhos meaning "flame-coloured" and -notos "-backed".
Key Facts
- Well-known species with 37,698 recorded observations.
Classification
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the Cliff Swallow?
The scientific name of the Cliff Swallow is Petrochelidon pyrrhonota.
How many Cliff Swallow sightings have been recorded?
37,698 observations of the Cliff Swallow have been recorded on iNaturalist.
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Featured in Beat Darwin
The Cliff Swallow was Beat Darwin's Animal of the Day on challenge #228 — October 25, 2026. Can you identify it in 3 attempts?
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