The Cuban Martin is a medium-sized swallow endemic to Cuba and its surrounding islands. Males are iridescent purplish-blue, similar to the Purple Martin, but females and immatures have white undertail coverts.
Where to spot
Open country, cultivated areas, coastal regions, and towns throughout Cuba and its smaller offshore islands.
How to spot
Look for its glossy purplish-blue plumage. Pay attention to the undertail coverts of females and immatures, which are white, a key distinguishing feature from Purple Martin.
When to spot
Year-round resident, though some local movements may occur. Active during daylight hours.
Where to spot
Open country, cultivated areas, coastal regions, and towns throughout Cuba and its smaller offshore islands.
How to spot
Look for its glossy purplish-blue plumage. Pay attention to the undertail coverts of females and immatures, which are white, a key distinguishing feature from Purple Martin.
When to spot
Year-round resident, though some local movements may occur. Active during daylight hours.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species was once considered a subspecies of the Purple Martin but is now recognized as a distinct endemic species to the Caribbean, based on morphological and genetic differences.
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