#martins

Sand Martin, Riparia riparia. One of the smallest hirundines (martins and swallows) Sand Martins excavate their nests along waterways in sandy riverbanks over much of the northern hemisphere during the breeding season, returning to the African continent for winter. Populations have fluctuated over recent years due to regional droughts in their wintering grounds, however they are currently regarded as least concern. These dainty birds can often be seen flitting and swooping acrobatically over the surface of the water for small midges, and are one of the delights of late spring and summer to see.

[Nikon D850; AF-S Nikkor 500mm F5,6E PF ED VR with Nikon AF-S TC-14E III]

Yesterday morning many martins and swallows were gathered near this pond on wires and trees. They would chatter then scatter in groups and feed on insects swooping over the pond like this and over fields nearby. The numbers were huge and it was wonderful to see.

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Purple Martin boxes at the ferry terminal