Eurasian Crag-Martin
Ptyonoprogne rupestris
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Passeriformes · Hirundinidae
About
The Eurasian crag martin or just crag martin is a small passerine bird in the swallow family. It is about 14 cm (5.5 in) long with ash-brown upperparts and paler underparts, and a short, square tail that has distinctive white patches on most of its feathers. It breeds in the mountains of southern Europe, northwestern Africa and across the Palearctic. It can be confused with the three other species in its genus, but is larger with brighter tail spots and different plumage tone. Many European birds are resident, but some northern populations and most Asian breeders are migratory, wintering in northern Africa, the Middle East or India.
Fun Fact
Eurasian Crag-Martins nest on vertical cliff faces and have feet specially adapted with large pads of touch receptors for clinging to bare rock.
Quick Facts
Habitat
To be updated
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects caught in its beak in flight, although it will occasionally take prey items off rocks, the ground, or a water surface.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance