Mascarene Martin Phedina borbonica

Big, broad-winged brown swallow with heavy streaking below. Can be found in almost any habitat, though it prefers areas near water. Most often seen on the wing, sometimes in flocks, which can also contain other species of swallow or swift. Constantly gives a distinctive tearing “schreeaw” call, especially in flight. Larger than Plain Martin, with streaks below, and much more powerful flight. Shares streaking with striped-swallows, but has brown on the back and head, rather than blue and orange.