Mud Swallows Two Swallows: Which is Which? Two different species of swallows nest on buildings, bridges, and other human structures, constructing their nests from mouthfuls of mud. Cliff Swallows (the "Swallows of Capistrano") nest in colonies, with nests often touching each other. Each individual nest looks like a gourd, with a small hole serving as the entrance. Cliff Swallows often nest below eaves, the mud plastering the nest from behind and above. Cliff Swallows Photo Courtesy of James R. Gallagher Notice the tiny entrances to these nests, and how close they are. Barn Swallows nest individually, though nests can be fairly close to each other. On the outside each nest looks deep, but is mostly mud through and through. The actual nest is a shallow cup.   Notice how the nest is shaped like a cup. Try This! Which Is Which? Look up swallows in a field guide to birds. Compare the Barn Swallow and Cliff Swallow. Then check off which goes where on this table. Some features may be found in BOTH species. Make sure you look at both adult and immature birds.   Barn Swallow Cliff Swallow Forked tail     Tail has square tip     Buffy-colored rump patch     Rump same color as back     Orange forehead patch     Cream-colored forehead patch     Orange cheeks & throat     Cream-colored cheeks & throat     Orange breast and belly     Whitish breast and belly     Copyright 2002 Journey North. All Rights Reserved. Please send all questions, comments, and suggestions to our feedback form