Brown-throated Martin

Overview

The brown-throated martin, also known as the brown-throated sand martin or plain martin, is a small passerine bird in the swallow family, Hirundinidae, widely distributed across Africa. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• A 12 cm long bird that is brown above and white or pale brown below, lacking the narrow brown breast band seen in sand martins.
• Features a black bill and brown legs, with young birds displaying pale tips on rump and wing feathers.
• Distinguished by a quicker, jerkier flight than other swallow family members.
• Emits a continuous twittering song when in flight and a harsh alarm call.

Habitat

Found across a wide range in Africa, the brown-throated martin is usually closely associated with water. It is a partially migratory species, with some populations making seasonal movements.

Diet

This species feeds on small insects, mostly gnats and other flies whose early stages are aquatic.

Did you know?

The species epithet paludicola is Latin for "marsh-dweller," derived from palus meaning swamp and -cola meaning dweller, reflecting its strong association with water.