Biscutate Swift
NameBiscutate Swift
Common NameBiscutate Swift
Scientific NameStreptoprocne biscutata
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)45.5
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)105
Plumage DetailsPredominantly sooty black or dark brown plumage, with a prominent white patch on the throat and a less distinct white band on the nape. The flight feathers are dark, and the underparts are slightly paler than the upperparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid, chattering or screaming notes, often described as a series of 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'sree-sree-sree' calls given in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in southeastern Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeastern Argentina, typically in mountainous or hilly forested regions.
Identifying FeaturesDark sooty plumage, Prominent white throat patch, Long, scythe-like wings, Fast, agile flight, Forked tail
Description
The Biscutate Swift is a large, dark-plumaged swift known for its powerful, agile flight. It is characterized by a distinctive white throat patch and often a less prominent white nape band. These birds spend most of their lives in the air, foraging for insects.
