Family: Hirundinidae
Genus: Delichon
Distinctive small swallow with blue-black upperparts, a big white rump patch, and snow-white underparts. Juvenile in late summer and autumn is duller above and dingier below than adult. Compare with other swallows; note the relatively shallowly forked and streamerless tail, as well as jerky and fluttery flight. In east of range, overlaps with very similar Siberian House-Martin (formerly treated as one species); note present species’ significantly smaller rump patch. Breeds colonially, frequently building mud nests under the eaves of buildings; forages over varied open and semi-open habitats, especially water bodies and adjacent fields. Gives a soft burbling trill.
Photo: Look how gorgeous Delichon urbicum
Description Delichon urbicum
The Delichon urbicum, also known as the house martin, is a small passerine bird in the swallow family. It is found throughout Europe, West Asia, and North Africa and is known for its characteristic appearance and behavior.
Distribution:
The house martin is widely distributed across Europe, including the British Isles, Scandinavia, and the Mediterranean region. It is also found in West Asia, particularly in countries such as Turkey and Iran. In North Africa, the house martin can be found in countries like Morocco and Algeria.
In terms of habitat, the house martin is commonly found in urban and suburban areas where it builds its nest on the sides of buildings and under the eaves of houses. It is also known to nest in cliffs and rocky areas, particularly during the breeding season.
The migratory patterns of the house martin vary depending on its location. In Europe, populations typically migrate to sub-Saharan Africa during the winter months, while populations in North Africa may be partially sedentary or migrate shorter distances. The return migration to breeding grounds occurs in spring, with the birds arriving in their nesting areas to breed and raise their young.
The house martin’s distribution and migration patterns make it a familiar sight to many people across its range, particularly during the summer months when the birds are actively nesting and foraging for insects. Its adaptability to nesting on human structures has also made it a common sight in urban and rural areas alike.
In conclusion, the Delichon urbicum, or house martin, is a widely distributed bird species found across Europe, West Asia, and North Africa. Its ability to adapt to urban environments and its migratory behavior make it a recognizable and significant part of the avian fauna in these regions.