Similar species
The related Tree Martin has a black head and a white rump. Martins are generally smaller and dumpier than swallows, and have a shorter, squared rather than forked tail in flight.
Distribution
The Fairy Martin is found across Australia.
Habitat
The Fairy Martin prefers open country near water, and is usually seen near its nest sites, in cliffs, culverts or bridges.
Seasonal-movements
Seasonally migratory, moving north for winter, with some birds flying to New Guinea.
Feeding
The Fairy Martin feeds high in the air on flying insects, usually in large flocks.
Breeding
A colonial nester, the Fairy Martin builds bottle-shaped mudnests that are packed closely together on the ceilings of caves, and under bridges or other similar structures. Both sexes build the nest and share incubation and care of the young.
Living with us
The Fairy Martin readily uses artificial structures such as bridges to attach its nests to, and will also use inhabited buildings to make its nests on.