Tree Swallows they are called because they nest in hollow trees and, like some other hole-nesting birds, they may be induced to occupy nesting-boxes, making a welcome addition to our list of bird tenants. The 4-7 white eggs are laid in May.
BANK SWALLOW
Riparia riparia. [Case 6]. Fig. 54
Note the small size, dull plumage, and breast-band. L. 5¼.
Range. A native of the Old World as well as of the New. In North America nesting from Louisiana and Virginia nearly to the Arctic Circle; winters in the tropics.
Washington, common S.R., more common T.V., Apl. 13-Sept. 19. Ossining, common S.R., Apl. 18-Oct. 1. Cambridge, formerly common S.R., Apl. 28-Sept. 1; common T.V. N. Ohio, common S.R., Apl. 6-Sept. 20. Glen Ellyn, fairly common T.V.; a few S.R., Apl. 22-Sept. 3. SE. Minn., common S.R., Apl. 10-Sept. 25.
The Bank Swallow is a bird of the air who tunnels the earth for a nesting-place. Where river or road has left a bank, its face may be dotted with the entrances to the Bank Swallow's dwellings. At the end of two or three feet the nest of grass and feathers is placed, fit receptacle for the pearl-white eggs, which are usually laid the latter half of May.
During the migrations the Bank Swallow travels with other members of its family, sharing their roost in the marshes by night and their wayside perch by day.
ROUGH-WINGED SWALLOW
Stelgidopteryx serripennis. [Case 6], Fig. 56
With the general appearance of the Bank Swallow, but slightly larger, grayer below, and with no breast-band. L. 5¾.
Range. Nests from the Gulf States north to Massachusetts and Minnesota: winters in the tropics.