Birdsong field guide
Madagascar Martin
Riparia cowani
The Madagascar Martin is a small, subtle swallow endemic to the high plateaus of Madagascar, distinguished by its dull brown plumage and notched tail.
What it sounds like
A weak, dry, twittering 'tsip' or 'chrrit' sound, often delivered in flight.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
No reference call found yet · Xeno-canto
Field notes
- It was historically considered a subspecies of the Plain Martin but is now recognized as a distinct species.
- The species is an aerial insectivore that typically forages in low, erratic flight patterns over water or grass.
- It nests in colonial burrows, which the birds excavate into vertical sandy riverbanks or road cuttings.
- It is primarily a high-altitude specialist, most frequently encountered in the central highlands above 800 meters.
- Unlike many other martins, this species is mostly sedentary and does not perform long-distance migrations.
Habitat
Upland grasslands, marshes, and river valleys, particularly near vertical earthen banks for nesting.
Range
Endemic to the island of Madagascar, primarily the central and eastern regions.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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