Introduction
The bank swallow (Riparia riparia) is locally common at scattered locations throughout the region. It is listed as a Species of Greatest Conservation Need in one or more states in BCR 14.
Habitat Needs
Uses relatively large grasslands or open areas for feeding and feeds almost exclusively on flying insects over water and open areas. Feeding areas need to be adjacent to flowing water with steep, stabilized banks of erodible soils critical for nesting burrows. Also nests in gravel pits, road-cuts and other exposed bank surfaces of sand or clay.
Its territory size is restricted to the area immediately adjacent to its nest burrow.
Habitat Management Practices
When assessing properties for potential, look for large gravel pits or properties with third or fourth order streams, with high banks, passing through them.
Maintain relatively large areas in an open condition adjacent to riparian areas and gravel banks with high stable banks.