Pale Martin

Riparia diluta

Order:

Family:

Size:

12 cm

Weight:

17-19 g

Taxonomy:

R. d. indica (Ticehurst, 1916)

Short Description:

Pale Martin (Riparia diluta), also known as the Pale Sand Martin, is a small migratory bird species belonging to the Hirundinidae family. In Pakistan, it is primarily identified by its pale underparts, contrasting with its darker upperparts, and distinctive brownish-grey wings. This species has a short, slightly forked tail and a slender body, allowing it to swiftly maneuver through the air.

Far far away, behind the word mountains, far from the countries Vokalia and Consonantia, there live the blind texts. Separated they live in Bookmarksgrove right at the coast

Pale Martin is predominantly found in various habitats such as riverbanks, lakeshores, and agricultural areas, especially during the winter months. While its distribution across the country may vary, it is commonly observed in the northern regions, including Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan.

Pale Martins are highly sociable birds, often seen in small to large flocks during migration and breeding seasons. They are adept aerial hunters, feeding primarily on insects captured in flight. These birds construct their nests in colonies, typically in cavities or crevices along cliffs, riverbanks, or human-made structures like bridges and buildings. During the breeding season, they exhibit territorial behavior, vigorously defending their nesting sites from intruders.