Pale Martin
NamePale Martin
Common NamePale Martin
Scientific NameRiparia diluta
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are a uniform pale sandy-brown or grey-brown. Underparts are clean white, with a very faint or sometimes absent pale brownish breast band, which is less distinct than in the Sand Martin. The throat is white.
Vocalization / CallTypically a dry, rattling "trrrrt" or "chrrrip" call, often given in flight or when disturbed near colonies.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Central Asia, parts of the Middle East, and sometimes eastern Europe, wintering in parts of South Asia and Africa.
Identifying Featurespale sandy-brown upperparts, clean white underparts, faint or absent breast band, small size, nests in sandy banks
Description
The Pale Martin is a small, agile passerine bird known for its aerial foraging. It has a drab brown back and clean white underparts, often with a faint or absent breast band, distinguishing it from its close relative, the Sand Martin. These birds typically nest in colonies in burrows dug into sandy banks.
