The crag martin

They first appear in the Pays des Écrins from late February, so it's true to say that they don't bring the spring! Brown with a beige underside, as their name suggests they nest on crags and cliffs. It is the most common species of swallow in the mountains and is present up to an altitude of 2,500 metres. They are partially migratory, overwintering in the south of France where they join resident colonies.