Australian Swiftlet
NameAustralian Swiftlet
Common NameAustralian Swiftlet
Scientific NameAerodramus terraereginae
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark sooty-brown, contrasting with slightly paler, greyish-brown underparts. The throat and breast are often a lighter grey, and the rump can appear slightly paler than the back.
Vocalization / CallEmits high-pitched chirps and clicks, particularly for echolocation when navigating dark caves or crevices. Also has twittering calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to northeastern Australia, primarily found in coastal and subcoastal areas of Queensland.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Dark sooty-brown plumage, Long, pointed wings, Rapid, erratic flight, Echolocation ability, Often associated with caves or cliffs for nesting
Description
The Australian Swiftlet is a small, fast-flying aerial bird with long, pointed wings. It spends most of its life in the air, feeding on insects, and is known for its ability to echolocate in dark caves where it nests.
