Tree Swallow at Iona Island

Tree Swallows arrive early at Iona Beach, signaling spring across open fields and coastal wetlands. Identification can be tricky as they are similar to Violet-green swallows. Tree Swallows show glossy blue upper-parts, white underparts, with a full colored rump and color below the eye. At Iona, these birds favor fence posts and driftwood between fast aerial feeding flights. Fun fact: Tree Swallows can digest berries, unlike most swallows that eat insects exclusively. Swallows at Iona include Violet-green, Barn, and occasional Cliff Swallows during spring migration. These species exploit abundant flying insects concentrated by water, wind, and open runway landscapes. Most swallows move on, but these birds occupy most of the nest boxes in the park. Behavior is restless, with constant looping flights and brief perches during calm mornings. Voice consists of soft chirps and liquid twitters, usually heard overhead. Best viewing occurs on sunny spring days along perimeter paths and grassy edges. Tree Swallows remain a reliable, energetic highlight of spring birding at Iona Beach.