A swallow is a small bird with black or dark brown feathers and a forked tail. It has long, narrow wings and flies with smooth, quick movements. The barn swallow (Hirundo rustica) is the most common type. Swallows have small, weak feet and cannot walk well. Swallows are similar to swifts in shape and life habits but are somewhat smaller.
The swallow has a large mouth that helps it catch insects while flying. Its feathers can be brown, blue, or white. Swallows often make nests inside buildings. The psalmist once spoke about seeing a swallow’s nest at the temple (Psalm 84:3).
Swallows usually live year-round in Israel. This is different from swifts, which migrate on a regular schedule. The word “swallow” in Isaiah 38:14 probably means “swift.” In Jeremiah 8:7, the writer compares the swift’s regular migration with the unfaithfulness of God’s people. Proverbs 26:2 may refer to either the swallow or the swift.