Sand martin
Scientific name: Riparia riparia
The tiny, brown-and-white sand martin is a common summer visitor to the UK, nesting in colonies on rivers, lakes and flooded gravel pits. It returns to Africa in winter.
Species information
Statistics
Length: 12cmWingspan: 28cm
Weight: 14g
Average lifespan: 2 years
Conservation status
Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 5: the Red List for Birds (2021).