ebirdMadagascar Martin (Riparia cowani) – A small local martin that delights with its graceful flight and elegant silhouette. It is often seen fluttering through the sky of the ornithological garden of the Au Bois Vert lodge, hotel, and restaurant in Ivato, just near Antananarivo International Airport.
What does it look like?
The Madagascar Martin has a soft brown-grey back, a very pale cream belly, and a delicately pinkish breast. Its slender, tapered wings allow it to fly with agility, while its short trapezoid-shaped tail, clearly visible in flight, is typical of the species Riparia cowani.
Its song or cry
The Madagascar Martin emits small, sharp chirps, often given in flight, punctuated by subtle “tchip-tchip” sounds. Its song, both light and distinctive, is mostly heard in the morning in our ornithological garden, adding atmosphere around the lodge.
An anecdote or fun fact
Surprisingly, this martin sometimes uses old rodent burrows dug along the edges of the runways at Antananarivo International Airport to nest in. A fine demonstration of its ingenuity and remarkable adaptability.
Where and when to see it in our garden?
The Madagascar Martin is regularly observed around the water body, from dawn and again in the late afternoon. It hunts insects there in small groups above the lawns of the ornithological garden at the Au Bois Vert lodge.
Why does he love our garden?
The Madagascar Martin is attracted by swarms of insects swirling around the garden of our lodge. With its well-maintained grassy areas and proximity to the airport, our ornithological garden offers it a perfect hunting ground.
Tips for observing it
The best time to spot it is early in the morning, by quietly settling near the restaurant. A pair of binoculars will help you better follow its movements and pick up its soft calls. Wait by the water’s edge, where the insects start to stir: the martin never takes long to come hunting, curious yet always alert.
