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Key information: Like the Barn Swallow, the House Martin does not spend a lot of time on the ground, and can be seen flying or sitting on electricity wires. It is slightly smaller than the Barn Swallow with a shorter forked tail. It passes through Cyprus during migration and many stay here to nest. Its nest is similar to the Barn Swallow, but more closed and with a smaller entrance.

Length: 13,5 – 15 cm

Habitat: Towns and villages, farmland, mountains and forests

When they can be seen: Spring, summer, autumn

What they eat: Invertebrates

In Cyprus: Can be seen mostly in villages in mountainous and semi-mountainous areas

Status: Migrant breeder, passage migrant

Illustration by Paschalis Dougalis