Black Swift
NameBlack Swift
Common NameBlack Swift
Scientific NameCypseloides niger
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)17.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsEntirely sooty black or dark brown plumage, often appearing uniformly dark against the sky. Some individuals may show a slightly paler forehead or throat, but this is often difficult to discern in flight.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid, chattering or trilling calls, often given in flight, sounding like 'kitter-kitter-kitter' or 'chip-chip-chip'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, forest, coastal
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeBreeds in mountainous and coastal regions of western North America, from Alaska south to California and east to Colorado. Winters in South America, primarily in Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a swift, Uniformly dark plumage, Long, pointed, sickle-shaped wings, Slightly forked tail (often appears square in flight), Powerful, direct flight style
Description
The Black Swift is a large, dark swift known for its powerful, acrobatic flight high in the sky. It spends most of its life on the wing, feeding on insects and only landing to nest on inaccessible cliffs, often behind waterfalls.
