Tree Swallow Watching in Oregon

The Tree Swallow is common to most of North America, and it uses much of Oregon as part of its summer breeding territory. Usually around 5 inches long with a blue-green top and a white underside, these birds are often seen in huge tornado-like flocks outside of the breeding season, and in smaller groups during spring and summer.With a diet consisting primarily of insects, the Tree Swallow is an excellent flyer, often taking off very quickly to capture a passing insect mid-flight. They'll also eat fruit, especially during their winter months in Mexico and Florida.

Habitats for Tree Swallows

Tree Swallows live in cavities, building a nest of grasses and twigs in any mostly-enclosed and elevated place it can find. They also commonly live in nest boxes, so they are easy to lure into your own backyard. They prefer to live in open areas that are near trees and water, and spend most of their days looking for insects. They are commonly found in the Tualatin National Wildlife Refuge during spring and summer.

Best seasons to see Tree Swallows in Oregon

Tree Swallows usually begin arriving in Oregon in April or May, and will begin their journey south by October. In the southeastern part of Oregon they are generally only found during their spring and fall migrations, and in late spring and summer in the rest of the state.

Tree Swallows in Oregon summary

Typical habitat: Open areas near trees and water
Seasons: Late spring and summer
Abundance: Common in season

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