Brown-chested Martin vs Southern Rough-winged Swallow

In short

The Brown-chested Martin and Southern Rough-winged Swallow can be distinguished by size and plumage. The Brown-chested Martin is larger with sandy upperparts and a distinct brown breast band, while the Southern Rough-winged Swallow is smaller with a dusky brown body and a rusty throat.

Identification tips

• Size: Brown-chested Martin is larger.
• Plumage: Look for the sandy upperparts and brown breast band on the Brown-chested Martin; Southern Rough-winged Swallow has a rusty throat and pale rump.
• Vocalization: Listen for the Southern Rough-winged Swallow's rising, buzzy call.
• Behavior: Note the fast, low flight of the Brown-chested Martin over open areas.

Size

The Brown-chested Martin is noticeably larger than the Southern Rough-winged Swallow.

Plumage

Brown-chested Martin has sandy upperparts, white underparts, and an indistinct brown breast band. In contrast, the Southern Rough-winged Swallow is dusky brown with a pale rump, rusty throat, and a pale yellowish belly.

Behaviour

Both species forage on flying insects, but the Brown-chested Martin often flies low and fast over grassland or open water, while the Southern Rough-winged Swallow is often found in flocks.

Habitat

Brown-chested Martin is found from Colombia south to Argentina, often near open water or grasslands. Southern Rough-winged Swallow is more widespread in similar habitats but identification should be careful in extralimital records.

Voice

Southern Rough-winged Swallow can be detected by its rising, buzzy call, which is a useful identification feature.