Scarce, local, and poorly known large swallow of lowland deserts and coastal areas. Usually seen as singles or small groups, usually apart from other swallows. Often flies rather high overhead, soaring easily and swooping more powerfully than small swallows. At times perches on desert slopes above agricultural valleys. Male is wholly blue-black, while female is dusky grayish overall with blue-black back and wings. No other martins occur regularly within its range.