Their iridescent green back and violet rump can flash bright in sunlight but can look pure black in shade — a real test for ID even for experienced birders.
Unlike Tree Swallows, they're highly tolerant of arid country — they breed up to 11,000 ft and across the dry Great Basin.
Pairs commonly use the same nest cavity for many consecutive years if it stays available.
If you're in the western US, Violet-green Swallows often replace Tree Swallows as your nest-box tenants. Same setup as Tree Swallow.
Pole-mount 5–10 ft up in an open area near scattered trees. Higher mounts (10–15 ft) on dead trees or buildings work well.
Aerial insects — no feeders. Plant for native insects with a no-pesticide yard.
Even a small water source helps; they sweep low over ponds to drink and bathe in flight.
Pair-mount with a Western Bluebird box — they'll often coexist as neighbors.
Avoid mounting on metal that overheats; they prefer well-ventilated boxes in summer heat.
The western counterpart to the Tree Swallow, from Alaska down through the Mexican mountains. Ranges from sea level to high alpine.
Common breeder from southern Alaska through BC, Washington, Oregon, and California.
Breeds from Montana and Wyoming south through Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and into Mexico — to elevations of 11,000 ft.
A resident population in the Mexican highlands stays put while northern birds migrate south for winter.
Open coniferous and mixed forest, cliffs, canyons, and high-elevation meadows. Often nests in old woodpecker holes high in dead trees, but readily uses nest boxes.
Body sized to 5"×5" floor. The 1½" panel locks out larger nest competitors while letting the Violet-green Swallow pass cleanly.
See the full lineupWest-coast counterpart to Tree Swallow — same setup, prefers slightly higher mounts.