Cave Swallows historically nested only in limestone caves — now they've largely switched to bridges, culverts, and highway underpasses.
Their range has expanded dramatically since the 1980s; once nearly endemic to a few Texas caves, they now nest across the southern US.
They're often confused with Cliff Swallows but have a buffy throat instead of a chestnut one.
Hard to attract directly — Cave Swallows are colonial and depend on existing colonies. A new one rarely starts at a private home.
If your area has a Cave Swallow colony nearby, an open shelf 10–15 ft up under a covered porch can occasionally host overflow pairs.
Aerial insects only.
Mud for nest-building, and ideally a stock tank or pond for insect production.
Don't expect them outside their core Texas/Caribbean range; they're a regional specialty.
A southern US and Caribbean swallow that has rapidly expanded its range over the last forty years thanks to highway construction.
Core breeding range. Massive colonies in Texas culverts and bridges along I-10, I-35, and I-37.
Recent colonist; small populations in Florida and along the Gulf Coast.
Resident populations throughout Mexico, the Greater Antilles, and parts of Central America.
Caves historically; now bridges, culverts, highway overpasses, and open buildings. Almost always near limestone country or human-built concrete structures.
No entrance hole, no front wall — just a sheltered ledge. Includes drainage and the integrated mounting tab.
See the full lineupLess colonial than Cliff Swallow; pairs or small groups.