Habitat: Farmland and, during the breeding season, anywhere where there is open space and nesting sites (buildings). Not strictly dependent on water. During migration, large roosts of thousands of birds in reed beds.

Appearance: Very numerous breeding bird – migrant in large numbers – winter visitor in very small numbers.

Breeding season: May – August, mud nest in interior spaces, 3 – 6 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 17 – 21 cm, wingspan 32 – 34.5 cm, weight 26 – 23 grams; age 16 years.

Food: Small flying insects.