House Martin look-alikes
Delichon urbicum
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the House Martin. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Barn Swallow
Hirundo rustica
Key differences
The Barn Swallow has a deeply forked tail with long streamers, a dark blue-black back, and rufous-orange underparts (especially on the throat and forehead). It lacks the pure white rump of the House Martin and has unfeathered legs. Its flight is more direct and swooping.
Sand Martin (Bank Swallow)
Riparia riparia
Key differences
The Sand Martin is smaller and duller brown above, with a distinct brown breast band across its white underparts. It lacks the glossy blue-black upperparts and white rump of the House Martin. Its tail is only slightly forked. It nests in burrows in sand banks.
Red-rumped Swallow
Cecropis daurica
Key differences
The Red-rumped Swallow has a rufous-orange rump (not white), a rufous nape, and streaked underparts. Its tail streamers are much longer than those of the House Martin. It builds a mud nest with a tubular entrance.
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