Cook's Swift
NameCook's Swift
Common NameCook's Swift
Scientific NameChaetura pelagica
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)28.5
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)23.5
Plumage DetailsSooty gray-brown overall, with a slightly paler throat and breast that often appears mottled or scaly due to lighter feather edges. The wings and tail are darker, contrasting subtly with the body.
Vocalization / CallA rapid, chattering series of high-pitched chips and twitters, often given continuously while in flight, especially when in groups.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsurban, forest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds across eastern North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast of the United States. It undertakes a long-distance migration to winter in South America, primarily in Peru, Ecuador, and Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesSooty-brown plumage, Long, scythe-like wings, Short, stiff tail, Cigar-shaped body, Rapid, erratic flight
Description
This swift is a small, sooty-brown bird with a cigar-shaped body and long, scythe-like wings, spending almost its entire life in flight. It is highly aerial, often seen soaring and foraging for insects high in the sky, rarely perching except to roost or nest.
