House Martin song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the House Martin, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A soft, warbling, chattering song, often delivered from the nest or a perch. It is less varied and musical than the Barn Swallow's song, consisting of a series of short, twittering notes.

Calls

Common calls include a short, sharp 'chip' or 'chrrrp' contact call, especially in flight or around the colony. An alarm call is a more insistent 'tseep'.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, particularly around the nest site. Calls are frequently heard in flight as they forage or gather.

Explore the House Martin