Banded Martin

The Banded Martin, or Banded Sand Martin (Neophedina cincta), presents itself as a modestly sized passerine, a member of the swallow family Hirundinidae, endemic to the diverse landscapes of Africa. This sole representative of the genus Neophedina measures between 15 to 17 centimeters in length, adorned with earth-brown upper parts, save for a distinctive white stripe gracing the area above the eye. Its underparts are a crisp white, matched by the underwing coverts, while a dark brown breast band and occasionally a fine dark line across the vent complete its attire. Both sexes share a similar plumage, though the juveniles can be discerned by their paler breast band and the golden tips that embellish their upper part feathers.

Identification Tips

To distinguish the Banded Martin from its relatives, one should note its square tail and the white underwings, which set it apart from the smaller Sand Martin. Compared to the Brown-throated Sand Martin, the Banded Martin's white throat is a clear identifier. It is also less gregarious than its cousins, often observed in pairs or small flocks rather than large groups.

Habitat

The Banded Martin favors open environments such as farmland, grassland, and savannah, typically in proximity to water, which provides an ample supply of its insect prey.

Distribution

This species is widespread across Africa, from Cameroon and Zaire to Ethiopia, and down to the Cape in South Africa. However, it avoids the arid regions of western South Africa and southern Namibia. The southern populations, particularly the nominate subspecies, are migratory, seeking warmer climates to the north during the winter months.

Behaviour

Characterized by a slow and somewhat erratic flight, the Banded Martin often perches, surveying its surroundings. It feeds on insects, which it adeptly captures in flight over grasslands.

Song & Calls

The Banded Martin communicates with a flight call that can be transcribed as "che-che-che," while its song is a twittering medley of "chip choop" sounds, a delightful chorus to any keen ear.

Breeding

Unlike its genus counterparts, the Banded Martin does not breed colonially. Its nest is a simple affair of straw and feathers, situated at the end of a tunnel ranging from 60 to 90 centimeters in length, often dug into a natural sand bank or earth mound by the birds themselves. Both parents share the duty of incubating the two to five pristine white eggs laid within.

Similar Species

The Banded Martin is similar in appearance to the Sand Martin and the Brown-throated Sand Martin but can be easily differentiated by its larger size, square tail, and the white patches on its underwings.

Diet and Feeding

Insects form the staple of the Banded Martin's diet, which it hunts in the air with agility and grace.

Conservation status

The Banded Martin is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, for now, this species does not face immediate threats to its survival.