The Greater Striped Swallow, Cecropis cucullata, is a large and striking bird native to the southern regions of Africa. Measuring between 18 to 20 centimeters in length, it boasts dark blue upperparts contrasted by a pale orange rump and a rich chestnut crown, nape, and sides of the head. Its underparts and underwing coverts are a creamy white, adorned with dark streaking, while the upper wings and underwing flight feathers are a blackish-brown. The tail is blackish with elongated outer feathers, slightly longer in males than females. Juveniles present a duller, browner appearance with less contrast and shorter tail feathers.
When observing the Greater Striped Swallow, look for its slow, buoyant flight and listen for its twittering "chissick" call. The bird can be identified by its distinctive coloration, particularly the chestnut head and pale orange rump. The long outer tail feathers are also a key characteristic to note.
This species is a bird of dry open country, favoring grasslands and showing a preference for hills and mountains. It tends to avoid more wooded areas but is often found in close proximity to human habitation.
The Greater Striped Swallow breeds in the southern parts of Africa, with a range that includes South Africa, Namibia, and southern Zimbabwe. It is a migratory bird, wintering further north in countries such as Angola, Tanzania, and the southern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
