| Crag Martin (Ptyonoprogne rupestris) (aka Hirundo rupestris) |
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Samaria Gorge, Crete November 2002 The Crag Martin breeds around the Mediterranean and into central Asia and northern China. It is found in the mountains but seems to avoid wind and snow whenever possible. It breeds in caves and cavities on the cliff face. |
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It is a rather large swallow with broad but pointed wings and only a hint of a fork in the tail. It is a dull grey-brown colour and, as can be seen in the first photo, the throat is faintly streaked. Below the dark underwing coverts contrast with the greyish white of the rest of the underwings. A noteable feature, but one which is only visible when the tail is fanned out as in the second photo, are the white spots on the tail. | |||
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