How to identify the House Martin

To correctly identify the House Martin (Delichon urbicum), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

13-15 cm

Wingspan

26-29 cm

Weight

15-22 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have glossy blue-black upperparts, including the head, back, and upperwing coverts. The rump is conspicuously pure white, contrasting sharply with the dark back and tail. Underparts are entirely pure white. The tail is forked, but less deeply than that of a Barn Swallow.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Small, flattened, and triangular, adapted for catching insects in flight. Black in color.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Short, feathered white legs and feet, often appearing fluffy.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The most distinctive feature is the pure white rump, which is highly visible in flight. The feathered white legs are also unique among European swallows and martins. Its flight is typically more buoyant and fluttering than the Barn Swallow.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller than adults, with sooty-brown upperparts instead of glossy blue-black. The white underparts may be tinged with grey or buff, and the white rump is less bright. The feathers on the legs are less developed.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Breeding and non-breeding plumages are similar, though plumage may appear slightly worn by the end of the breeding season.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are virtually identical in plumage and size. There is no discernible sexual dimorphism.

Key field marks

• Rump Color. Look for the striking, pure white rump that contrasts sharply with the dark back. This is the most reliable field mark.
• Underparts. Observe the entirely pure white underparts, lacking any streaking or rufous coloration.
• Upperparts. Note the glossy blue-black upperparts, which can appear dark blue in good light.
• Tail Shape. The tail is forked, but relatively short and less deeply forked than a Barn Swallow's, lacking long streamers.
• Legs. If seen at rest or closely, the white feathered legs and feet are a unique identifier among European swallows/martins.
• Flight Style. Its flight is often described as more buoyant, fluttering, and less direct than the Barn Swallow, with frequent glides.
• Nesting Sites. Look for mud nests built under eaves of buildings, bridges, or cliffs, often in colonies.

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