Welcome swallow
warou · Hirundo neoxena
Commonly seen over the bays and moorings, and nesting in boats that rarely leave them.
Story
A native that let itself in. Welcome swallows were rare vagrants from Australia until they first bred at Awanui, Northland, in 1958. By 1965 they were common through Northland and breeding in the South Island.
Behaviour
Hunts insects in fast, looping flight low over water, and drinks on the wing by skimming the surface. Builds a mud cup nest under cover on buildings, bridges and boats, and can raise three broods a season.