Eurasian Crag Martin vs Barn Swallow

In short

The Eurasian Crag Martin and Barn Swallow can be distinguished by their tail shapes and plumage. The Barn Swallow has a long, deeply forked tail with white patches, while the Eurasian Crag Martin has a shorter, square tail without white patches. Additionally, the Barn Swallow displays a glossy steel-blue upperpart and a rufous-chestnut throat, contrasting with the more uniform brownish-gray plumage of the Crag Martin.

Identification tips

1. Tail Shape: Look for the Barn Swallow's long, deeply forked tail with white patches, as opposed to the Crag Martin's shorter, square tail. 2. Plumage Color: Note the Barn Swallow's glossy steel-blue upperparts and rufous-chestnut throat, which contrast with the Crag Martin's more uniform brownish-gray plumage.

Plumage

Barn Swallows have glossy steel-blue upperparts and a rufous-chestnut throat with a broad blue breastband, while Eurasian Crag Martins are more uniformly brownish-gray without the distinct throat and breastband coloration.