The banded martin or banded sand martin is a small passerine bird in the swallow family Hirundinidae that is endemic to Africa. It is the only species placed in the genus Neophedina.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found widely but patchily across sub-Saharan Africa wherever suitable earthen banks and open foraging space occur. It favors rivers, lakeshores, seasonal streams, and man-made cuttings with exposed sandy or loamy faces for burrowing. Surrounding habitats include open woodland, savanna, grassland, and agricultural mosaics. It is generally local, occurring in pairs or small groups rather than large colonies.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The banded martin, also called the banded sand martin, is a swallow of sub-Saharan Africa and the sole member of its genus. It typically excavates its own nesting burrow in sandy riverbanks or road cuttings. Its bold dark breast band on otherwise white underparts is a key field mark. It often forages low over water and open savanna, taking advantage of insect swarms after rains.
At the Bangweulu Wetlands in Zambia
Temperament
moderately social and alert
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, agile foraging flights and brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small loose groups; less colonial than many other sand martins. Both sexes excavate a burrow nest in vertical banks and line a chamber with grasses and feathers. Clutches are small to moderate, and both parents feed the young. Outside breeding, it may join mixed swallow flocks at good feeding sites.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives soft twittering notes and dry trrrt calls during flight. Vocalizations are subdued compared to some swallows, used to maintain contact with mates or nearby birds. Alarm calls are sharper and more insistent near nest sites.
