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<p>The Barn Swallow <i>Hirundo rustica</i> is a globally distributed migratory species and one of several aerial insectivores currently experiencing population declines worldwide. As a result, it has become a focal species in studies examining the mechanisms of avian migration and their ecological impacts. Although considerable research has focused on the breeding grounds of this species, knowledge about its dietary habits in wintering regions, particularly in Southeast Asia, remains limited. This study investigates the diets of the Barn Swallow during its migratory season in Peninsular Malaysia, leveraging next-generation sequencing (NGS) to analyse dietary shifts across three key phases: early migration (September), wintering season (December) and late migration (June). Field sampling was conducted in Bentong, Pahang, from September 2019 to June 2020. Our analysis revealed notable shifts in dietary composition throughout the migration period. Early in the season, the diet was dominated by insects from the order Hymenoptera (77.67%), followed by Diptera (18.93%). By mid-season or also known as wintering season, Barn Swallows exhibited a marked dietary specialisation, consuming exclusively Hymenoptera. In contrast, their diets became increasingly diverse toward the end of the migration season, encompassing a wider range of insect taxa. This shift likely reflects a decrease in prey abundance, prompting a more opportunistic foraging strategy to meet energy demands in preparation for the return migration. These findings underscore the importance of wintering habitats in shaping migratory behaviours and diet, offering critical insights into the ecological factors influencing population dynamics. Such findings are vital for conservation efforts aimed at mitigating the Barn Swallow population decline in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, our results highlight the need for further research into the impacts of different habitats and prey availability on migratory birds, particularly within the context of global insect declines. Comparative studies between Barn Swallows and resident aerial insectivores would further enhance our understanding of interspecific dietary differences and their ecological implications, thereby contributing to targeted conservation strategies.</p>

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Dietary shifts in Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica passage and wintering in Peninsular Malaysia: From the early to late migratory season

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2025年3月8日

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  • Nor Adibah Ismail,
  • Ummi Nur Syafiqah Daud,
  • Noor Fatihah Najihah Arazmi,
  • Shukor Md Nor,
  • Mohammad Saiful Mansor

摘要

The Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica is a globally distributed migratory species and one of several aerial insectivores currently experiencing population declines worldwide. As a result, it has become a focal species in studies examining the mechanisms of avian migration and their ecological impacts. Although considerable research has focused on the breeding grounds of this species, knowledge about its dietary habits in wintering regions, particularly in Southeast Asia, remains limited. This study investigates the diets of the Barn Swallow during its migratory season in Peninsular Malaysia, leveraging next-generation sequencing (NGS) to analyse dietary shifts across three key phases: early migration (September), wintering season (December) and late migration (June). Field sampling was conducted in Bentong, Pahang, from September 2019 to June 2020. Our analysis revealed notable shifts in dietary composition throughout the migration period. Early in the season, the diet was dominated by insects from the order Hymenoptera (77.67%), followed by Diptera (18.93%). By mid-season or also known as wintering season, Barn Swallows exhibited a marked dietary specialisation, consuming exclusively Hymenoptera. In contrast, their diets became increasingly diverse toward the end of the migration season, encompassing a wider range of insect taxa. This shift likely reflects a decrease in prey abundance, prompting a more opportunistic foraging strategy to meet energy demands in preparation for the return migration. These findings underscore the importance of wintering habitats in shaping migratory behaviours and diet, offering critical insights into the ecological factors influencing population dynamics. Such findings are vital for conservation efforts aimed at mitigating the Barn Swallow population decline in Southeast Asia. Furthermore, our results highlight the need for further research into the impacts of different habitats and prey availability on migratory birds, particularly within the context of global insect declines. Comparative studies between Barn Swallows and resident aerial insectivores would further enhance our understanding of interspecific dietary differences and their ecological implications, thereby contributing to targeted conservation strategies.