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Bank Swallow / Sand Martin

Bank Swallow / Sand Martin

Riparia riparia

A small migratory passerine bird characterized by its brown upperparts, white underparts, and distinctive forked tail, known for nesting in sandy riverbanks and cliff faces.

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Bank Swallow / Sand Martin
Bank Swallow / Sand Martin
Bank Swallow / Sand Martin
Bank Swallow / Sand Martin
Bank Swallow / Sand Martin
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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Widespread across Europe, Asia, and North America near rivers, lakes, coastal areas, and agricultural landscapes with exposed sandy or earthen banks for breeding

Ecological Role

Critical insectivore that controls insect populations, serves as prey for raptors, and acts as an indicator species for ecosystem health and environmental changes

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Brown dorsal plumage, white ventral plumage with distinctive brown breast band
  • LIMBS WINGS Long, pointed wings enabling agile flight, short legs with adaptations for perching and clinging to vertical surfaces
  • HEAD SENSORY Small, rounded head with large eyes, short beak optimized for catching aerial insects
  • BODY STRUCTURE Small bird, approximately 11-13 cm in length, weighing 10-20 g, with streamlined body adapted for aerial foraging
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wiki
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Related Species in Hirundinidae