Sand Martins galore!

For many, the little Sand Martin signifies that summer is nearly upon us, and although the Swallow brings about the summer in many peoples eyes, it is the Sand Martins that generally arrive first in the UK, from their wintering stronghold in West Africa.  This small but powerful little flyer crosses the Sahara, makes its way up to the African coast, crosses the Mediterranean into Europe where groups branch off, with some making their way through Spain and into France, where eventually they will cross the Atlantic usually onto the East coast. Others fly across into the Bristol Channel - as is probably the case for the ones mentioned here. 

At a mere 12cm in length with a weight of 10 - 17g and a wingspan of 27 - 29cm, what they lack in size they make up for with aerial feeding skills and strength. I have noticed that the birds entering from the Channel make their way along the Gwent Levels coastline and some branch off to start to follow the main rivers inland. The photos here I took at Caerphilly Castle Moat where a group of around twenty pairs breed each year. Many will follow the River Rhymney along and up through the Machen gap to arrive at the castle moat, where an abundance of flying insects await them. 

Now the fun starts. They arrive around mid-March although they were a little later this year. Once settled, the adults quickly breed and before long one can sit down on the low wall and watch the antics, the comings and goings and the skilful aerial flying. Just prior to the shop in the castle, walk thorugh the large wooden door to the right and down the steps. Follow the grass bank around to the left and sit on the low wall ahead of you. Enjoy the feeding spectacle of a mass of Sand Martins, and look at the holes in the high opposite where at this time of year, numerous young birds are poking their heads out in anticipation of the next insect food brought in by the adults. What a relaxing hour or so you can have watching them.

All pictures copyright of N J Davies.