Southern Crag-Martin
NameSouthern Crag-Martin
Common NameSouthern Crag-Martin
Scientific NamePtyonoprogne fuligula
FamilyHirundinidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsDull sooty brown upperparts, contrasting with paler, often rufous-tinged underparts, especially on the throat and breast. The undertail coverts are dark, and the square tail features small white spots on the inner webs of the outer tail feathers, visible when spread in flight.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, twittering song and various short, sharp 'chip' or 'chick' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, urban, coastal, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of sub-Saharan Africa, from Mauritania and Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa. It is also found in parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying FeaturesDull brown plumage, Square tail with white spots (visible in flight), Often found near cliffs or man-made structures, Agile, erratic flight, Pale throat and breast
Description
The Southern Crag-Martin is a small, drab brown swallow-like bird typically found near cliffs, rocky outcrops, and human structures. It is an agile flyer, often seen catching insects in mid-air with erratic flight patterns.
