The African River Martin is a distinctive and enigmatic swallow-like bird found in Central Africa. It is unique among hirundines for its large, stout bill and iridescent black plumage.
Where to spot
Along large rivers, particularly the Congo River and its tributaries, in Central Africa, often nesting in sandbanks.
How to spot
Look for its unique, somewhat stocky build and large bill while flying over rivers or perching on exposed sandbanks. Its deep black, iridescent plumage is also a key feature.
When to spot
Year-round, though its movements can be influenced by local river levels. Best observed during the breeding season when birds are at nesting colonies.
Where to spot
Along large rivers, particularly the Congo River and its tributaries, in Central Africa, often nesting in sandbanks.
How to spot
Look for its unique, somewhat stocky build and large bill while flying over rivers or perching on exposed sandbanks. Its deep black, iridescent plumage is also a key feature.
When to spot
Year-round, though its movements can be influenced by local river levels. Best observed during the breeding season when birds are at nesting colonies.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species is one of two in the unique genus 'Pseudochelidon', which translates to 'false swallow', due to its atypical features compared to other more common swallows.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.