Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
House martin
Scientific name: Delichon urbicum
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: HIRUNDINIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 20 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.03-31.10
Gestation: 200 à 250 jours
Births: 31.10-15.11
Habitat:
Under roofs, buildings, urban and rural areas
Description:
The house martin is a small migratory bird found mainly in urban and rural areas across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It is easily recognized by its metallic blue back and its white throat and belly. This swallow builds its nest under roofs, on window ledges, and on building cornices. It primarily feeds on insects, which it catches mid-flight, often chasing swarms of insects at high speed.
Recommended lens:
>=600 mm
Photography tips:
Photograph the house martin using a telephoto lens to capture its aerial acrobatics and graceful silhouette. It is best to photograph early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the light is soft and the bird is more active. Be ready to capture the moment when the bird dives through the air to catch insects mid-flight.
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