The Galápagos martin is a species of bird in the family Hirundinidae, endemic to the Galápagos Islands.
Region
Galápagos Islands
Typical Environment
Found patchily across several islands of the Galápagos Archipelago, especially where cliffs, lava outcrops, and coastal bluffs provide nest crevices. It uses open airspace over arid scrub, dry lowland zones, agricultural clearings, and shorelines. Birds may forage over settlements and along roads where insects are concentrated. Nesting typically occurs in natural cavities or crevices in cliffs and lava formations, and occasionally in man-made structures.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Galápagos martin is one of the least-studied swallows and is endemic to the Galápagos Islands of Ecuador. It forages on the wing for insects and often patrols coastal cliffs and open arid scrub. The species has a small and fragmented population and is threatened by invasive predators, habitat alteration, and limited nesting sites. Conservation actions focus on protecting breeding areas and controlling invasive species.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
agile flier with rapid wingbeats and short glides
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups, especially when foraging over open areas. Breeds as isolated pairs or in small, loose colonies, placing nests in natural crevices and cavities. Likely monogamous during the breeding season, with both parents participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft twitters and chatters given in flight and near nest sites. Calls are high, dry chips that may accelerate during social interactions or when alarmed.
Plumage
Adult males are glossy blue-black with a clean, uniform sheen; females and immatures are brownish-gray above with paler, lightly streaked or mottled underparts. The tail is slightly forked and the wings are long and pointed. Plumage is sleek and adapted for agile aerial flight.
Diet
An aerial insectivore that catches flying insects on the wing, including flies, beetles, wasps, moths, and other small arthropods. It often exploits insect swarms over coastal zones, arid scrub, and human-modified areas. Foraging height varies from just above the ground to several dozen meters depending on wind and prey availability.
Preferred Environment
Feeds over open habitats such as coastal cliffs, beaches, arid shrublands, agricultural clearings, and around settlements where insects concentrate. Frequently hunts along leeward slopes and thermal edges where insects are uplifted.
