Swallows · Perching birds
Pale Martin
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Riparia diluta
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How to recognize it
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Sparrow-sized
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Paler than the sand martin; breast band faint and diffuse
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Found near water, by sandy banks and sand or gravel pits
About the species
Its plumage is pale overall, with a faint, blurred band across the chest. The small swallow has little sharp contrast in its coloring. That soft chest marking is its clearest visual detail.
It is migratory, so it does not stay in one place throughout the year. During winter migration, it stays close to water.
It uses open habitats such as farmland, grassland and savannah, usually near water. Sandy riverbanks and sand or gravel pits are also places it lives, across a range from Central Asia to southeastern China.
Where to find
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Across Central Asia and into southeastern China, watch for Pale Martins flying along steep sandy riverbanks.
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At sand and gravel quarries within the range, look for flight over the open excavated ground.
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During winter migration, scan near water for flight close to shore.
