Red-rumped Swallows on Tinaburra Peninsula, Atherton Tablelands, Qld

["Mike Carter" <>]

Hi Alan, depending on where you were and time of year the streaked swallows 
you saw in Indonesia are just as, or more likely to have been, the 
non-migratory Striated Swallow. They are slightly larger and more heavily 
streaked but safest way of distinguishing them from Red-rumped Swallow is 
the colour of the underwing coverts; orange-rufous in Red-rumped, white in 
Striated. Did you see that character? There are other more subtle 
distinctions such as extent of collar but I'd have to look up my notes to be 
more explicit. Red-rumped Swallows don't usually depart Australia until end 
of March so you and others should be able to enjoy them for a while yet. 
This species seems less frequently reported in recent years but a BARC 
submission isn't required. If you have any photos I'd like to see them.
Mike Carter
30 Canadian Bay Road
Mount Eliza  VIC 3930
Tel  (03) 9787 7136