The Mascarene Martin is a medium-sized swallow endemic to the Mascarene Islands in the Indian Ocean. It is characterized by its dull brownish-grey plumage and faint streaking on the underparts.
Where to spot
Open areas, cultivated land, towns, and near cliffs or buildings for nesting on the islands of Reunion, Mauritius, and sometimes Madagascar (as a non-breeding visitor).
How to spot
Look for its plain, brownish appearance and slight streaking on the belly. Observe its typical martin-like flight as it forages for insects in the open. It often perches on wires or buildings.
When to spot
Year-round on the Mascarene Islands. May be observed seasonally in Madagascar as a non-breeding visitor.
Where to spot
Open areas, cultivated land, towns, and near cliffs or buildings for nesting on the islands of Reunion, Mauritius, and sometimes Madagascar (as a non-breeding visitor).
How to spot
Look for its plain, brownish appearance and slight streaking on the belly. Observe its typical martin-like flight as it forages for insects in the open. It often perches on wires or buildings.
When to spot
Year-round on the Mascarene Islands. May be observed seasonally in Madagascar as a non-breeding visitor.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species is one of the few endemic land birds found on the Mascarene islands, highlighting the unique biodiversity and evolutionary isolation of this archipelago.
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