This small swallow differs from other swallows, according to Gould, in its broad bill, compact body, and short tail. Gould believed it was similar to the Welcome Swallow which he had seen in Australia.
Gould had received two specimens, one from Dr. T.C. Jerdon from India and another from Alfred Russel Wallace, as far away as the island of Lombok, Indonesia.
Jerdon described it as nesting under the eaves in verandahs, deserted bungalows and outhouses.
The swallows are depicted lifesize.
T.C. Jerdon, Birds of India 1862-64, I, p.158
DISTRIBUTION: Southwestern Indian peninsula from Nilgiri Hills to southern Kerala and Sri Lanka.
Considered by some authorities to be a subspecies of the Pacific Swallow Hirundo tahitica