EP32 - House Martin - Bird Song

The House Martin (Delichon urbicum) is a small bird found in Europe and Asia. It is closely related to the swallow and is often confused with it, but there are some differences between the two species.
One of the most notable differences is their appearance. House Martins have a white rump and a distinctive forked tail, while swallows have a longer tail with less pronounced fork. House Martins also have a blunter head and shorter wings, which makes them appear more rounded than swallows.
Another difference is their song. While swallows have a distinctive chirping sound, House Martins are generally silent, although they may make a soft chattering sound when they are near their nests.
House Martins build their nests out of mud and plant material, usually under the eaves of buildings or other structures. These nests are cup-shaped and have a small entrance hole at the top. They are often built in colonies, with several nests clustered together.
House Martins are migratory birds and spend their winters in Africa. They usually leave Europe in August and return in April or May. During migration, they form large flocks and can cover long distances.
House Martins are known for their acrobatic flying skills. They are able to catch insects on the wing and can make sudden, darting turns in the air. They also have a distinctive flight pattern, with a fluttering motion that sets them apart from swallows.
In summary, the House Martin is a small, round bird with a distinctive forked tail and white rump. It is closely related to the swallow but has some physical and behavioural differences. House Martins build cup-shaped nests out of mud and plant material and are migratory, spending their winters in Africa. They are known for their acrobatic flying skills and fluttering flight pattern.