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Birds and Butterflies of Rhodes
RODOPTERA
Delichon urbicum
Northern house martin. Greek:
λευκοχελίδονο. Kiotari, April 2022.
Breeding migrant, common. March to September. Length 12-14 cm, wingspan 26-28 cm. Sexes similar. Blue-black above with white rump patch and underparts, white feathered legs. Feeds on insects caught in flight over diverse mainly open habitats, often near water bodies. Breeds colonially in mud nests under eaves of buildings. Mates in nest. Fast, jerky flight. Male sings all year, soft song with melodious chirps.
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