Sand Martin
Riparia riparia
A small brown-and-white swallow with a dark band across its chest. Sand Martins nest in sandy banks or coastal cliffs, tunnelling into soft ground. On Lihou, you might spot them in spring or early autumn as they pass through, hunting insects on the wing.
- Habitat: Near water or soft, sandy banks for nesting; can appear around open coasts during migration.
- When to See: Primarily spring and autumn passage migrants (March–May, August–September).
- Diet / Food: Flying insects caught in midair.
- Length: 12 cm