Little Swift vs Western House Martin

In short

The Little Swift and the Western House Martin can be distinguished by their tail shape and plumage patterns. The Little Swift has a short, square tail, while the Western House Martin has a forked tail. Additionally, the House Martin displays a distinctive white rump patch, which is absent in the Little Swift.

Identification tips

• Look for the tail shape: Little Swift has a short, square tail, while the Western House Martin has a forked tail.
• Check for a white rump patch: present in the Western House Martin, absent in the Little Swift.

Plumage

The Western House Martin has a white rump patch and a glossy blue-black upper body, contrasting with its white underparts. The Little Swift lacks this white rump patch and has a more uniform dark plumage.