Cassin's Spinetail
NameCassin's Spinetail
Common NameCassin's Spinetail
Scientific NameNeafrapus cassini
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsPlumage is predominantly sooty-brown to black on the head, back, wings, and breast. It features a striking clean white belly and undertail coverts, creating a strong contrast with the darker upperparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid twittering or chattering calls, typical of many swift species.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West and Central Africa, its range extends from Sierra Leone and Liberia eastward through countries like Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying FeaturesWhite belly and undertail coverts contrasting with dark upperparts, Short, square tail with spiny feather shafts (often not visible in flight), Typical swift-like silhouette with long, narrow, swept-back wings, Fast, erratic flight pattern
Description
The Cassin's Spinetail is a medium-sized swift characterized by its dark upperparts and contrasting white belly. It is an aerial insectivore, spending most of its life in flight, foraging for insects high above the canopy of tropical forests.
