Caribbean Martin vs Brown-chested Martin

Caribbean Martin and Brown-chested Martin can be distinguished by their plumage and size. The Caribbean Martin is generally larger with a more uniform dark plumage, while the Brown-chested Martin has sandy upperparts and a distinctive brown breast band.

Look for the Caribbean Martin's larger size and uniform dark plumage. In contrast, the Brown-chested Martin's sandy upperparts and brown breast band are key identifiers. Consider the habitat and range, as Brown-chested Martin is migratory and found in South America, while Caribbean Martin is more restricted to the Caribbean.

Caribbean Martin is larger than the Brown-chested Martin.

Caribbean Martin has a more uniform dark plumage, whereas Brown-chested Martin features sandy upperparts and a brown breast band.

Both species forage for flying insects, but Brown-chested Martin often flies low and fast over grassland or open water.

Brown-chested Martin is found from Colombia south to Argentina and is migratory, forming large flocks. Caribbean Martin is more localized to the Caribbean region.