|
The species White-eyed River Martin is possibly extinct. |
|
- Pseudochelidon sirintarae
Identification
18cm. Glossy blue-black head, green-black back and underparts, matt black chin and lores, narrow white rump, browner wings long uppertail and undertail coverts, almost cloaking most tail feathers, two elongated slender central tail feathers with long narrow racquets at the tips, white eye and eyelids, broad, bright green-yellow bill, flesh coloured feet and legs. Sexes are similar. Juvenile has browner head and underparts, paler throat and no tail-streamers. Looks "front heavy" in flight, due to the large head and short tail, with long, broad based wings. Flight "bouyant and almost "tern-like". Appears almost "effortless" compared to other Swallows.
Distribution
Only known from Bung Boraphet, Thailand.
Taxonomy
Unknown but probably monotypic.
Habitat
Roosts in reedbeds during winter.
Behaviour
The diet includes insects caught in flight.
