Red-throated Crag-Martin
Ptyonoprogne rufigula
A subtly colored member of the swallow family. Dark brown on the back with paler underparts. The forked tail has white spots, though these are not always easy to see. The “red throat” amounts to a slight pinkish tinge. Nests in canyons, escarpments, gorges, and on human structures. Often seen in pairs or small groups. At a distance, can be confused with “Riparia” martins; look for Pale Crag-Martin’s white tail patches. Separation from Southern Crag-Martin may be tricky, but there is little overlap in range.
Identification
A subtly colored member of the swallow family. Dark brown on the back with paler underparts. The forked tail has white spots, though these are not always easy to see. The “red throat” amounts to a slight pinkish tinge. Nests in canyons, escarpments, gorges, and on human structures. Often seen in pairs or small groups. At a distance, can be confused with “Riparia” martins; look for Pale Crag-Martin’s white tail patches. Separation from Southern Crag-Martin may be tricky, but there is little overlap in range.
Taxonomy
Genus: Ptyonoprogne; Family: Hirundinidae; Order: Passeriformes.
- Scientific name
- Ptyonoprogne rufigula
- Order
- Passeriformes
- Family
- Hirundinidae
- Genus
- Ptyonoprogne
Photos
Distribution
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