Critters of the Week

Where Spotted: Canal Walk
Common Name: Northern Rough-winged Swallow
Scientific Name: Stelgidopteryx serripennis
Length: 4.7-5.9 in (12-15 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.6 oz (10-18 g)
Wingspan: 10.6-11.8 in (27-30 cm)

Quick Facts Courtesy of Cornell Labs

• The Northern Rough-winged Swallow gets its name from minuscule hooks on the leading edge of their primary feathers. Running a finger along the edge of the feather from base to the tip feels like touching a rough file.
• The genus name of the Northern Rough-winged Swallow is Stelgidopteryx, which means “scraper wing”; the species name, serripennis, means “saw feather.”
• Swallows are good fliers and that goes double for the Northern Rough-winged Swallow, which unlike most birds also molts some of its feathers while flying. It takes them around 100 days to finish growing new feathers.
• The oldest recorded Northern Rough-winged Swallow was a male, and at least 5 years, 11 months old when he was recaptured and rereleased in California.

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Proton at Richmond SPCA

Proton is a thoughtful girl that needs some time to become comfortable in new situations. The great news is that it does not take long and all she needs are some kind words and affection. She will ease into new friendships after this has taken place and will kindly purr and stick close to you. Please consider introducing yourself to this gentle hearted girl today, she would be forever devoted to you!

Age: 2 years, 2 months
Gender: Spayed Female
Color: Black / Orange
ID: 47707466

Adopt Proton at Richmond SPCA

Learn more about their adoption process.