January 

• Nearly all barn swallows have migrated to South America, completing their molts for both body and flight feathers as they prepare for the upcoming migration.

February

• The majority of American Barn Swallows can be found in South America. The initial breeding birds are reaching southern California and Texas, while some early migrants pass through Mexico. Molting is nearly complete during this period.

March

• The migration continues as most birds pass through Central America, with some reaching the central states. Molting is finished in time for the main phase of migration and the onset of the breeding cycle.

April

• Barn swallow migration peaks in the central states, and breeding begins in the South. Some individuals are reaching northern states and southern provinces.

May

• Migration reaches its peak in northern states and provinces, extending up to Alaska, coinciding with breeding across much of the range. The first hatchlings are observed.

June

• June marks the peak nesting period, with many baby barn swallows born during this month, keeping their parents busy.

July

• As barn swallows complete their nesting phase, they begin to gather in migratory groups. Some migrants depart from northern areas, while the young birds stay with their parents during migration.

August

• Peak fall migration for barn swallows covers much of Canada and the US. The first individuals are reaching South America. Keep an eye out for flocks along their migration pathways, gathering along telephone wires.

September

• The peak migration of barn swallows occurs through southern states, and they become less common over the northern part of their range.

October

• While a few straggler barn swallows may still be found in central states, the majority have migrated to South America, where they grow new body feathers. Some individuals begin molting their flight feathers.

November

• Most barn swallows are now in South America, and nearly all are engaged in molting.

December

• Virtually all barn swallows are in South America, with both body and flight feather molts at their peak during this month.