African Palm Swift
NameAfrican Palm Swift
Common NameAfrican Palm Swift
Scientific NameCypsiurus parvus
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is generally a dull sooty brown or grey-brown, appearing slightly paler on the throat and belly. The wings are long and pointed, and the tail is deeply forked with stiff, spiny outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid, twittering or trilling calls, often given continuously while in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, extending into parts of the Arabian Peninsula, typically found wherever suitable palm trees are present.
Identifying FeaturesSlender body, Long, narrow, swept-back wings, Deeply forked tail with stiff, spiny outer feathers, Dull sooty brown plumage, Constant aerial activity, often near palm trees
Description
The African Palm Swift is a slender, aerial bird with long, narrow, swept-back wings and a deeply forked tail. It spends most of its life in flight, often seen circling and foraging for insects high in the sky, particularly around palm trees where it roosts and nests.
