Antillean Palm Swift
NameAntillean Palm Swift
Common NameAntillean Palm Swift
Scientific NameTachornis phoenicobia
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)10
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsThis swift has sooty brown upperparts, a contrasting white rump patch, and white underparts. A prominent dark band crosses the breast, and the throat is pale. Its wings are long and narrow, and the tail is short and slightly forked.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid twittering or chattering notes, often given continuously while in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsurban, forest, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Greater Antilles, including Cuba, Hispaniola (Haiti and Dominican Republic), Jamaica, and Puerto Rico, as well as some smaller surrounding islands.
Identifying Featuressmall size, long, narrow wings, white rump patch, dark breast band, rapid, erratic flight, often associated with palm trees
Description
The Antillean Palm Swift is a small, agile bird known for its rapid, erratic flight. It is typically found soaring around palm trees, where it often nests and roosts. Its distinctive plumage helps in identification.
