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Birds and Butterflies of Rhodes
RODOPTERA
Ptyonoprogne rupestris
Eurasian crag martin. Greek: βραχοχελίδονο. Fokia, Pefki, April 2022.
Breeding migrant, some pairs resident, uncommon. March to October. Length 13-15 cm, wingspan 32-35 cm. Sexes similar. Ash-brown above with pale underparts, square tail with white ‘windows.’ Open rocky areas with steep cliffs, Rhodes medieval town. Usually in small groups, builds half-cup mud nest on cliffs, tall man-made structures. Feeds on insects caught in flight mainly in breeding area. Defends breeding territory by harassing intruders, including large raptors. Vigorous flight with twists, turns and glides. Chirping song.
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