Costa Rican Swift
NameCosta Rican Swift
Common NameCosta Rican Swift
Scientific NameChaetura fumosa
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsOverall sooty blackish-brown, with a prominent pale greyish-white throat and upper breast that fades into a slightly paler greyish belly. The back and wings are dark, with the rump and uppertail coverts being slightly paler than the back.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid, chattering or twittering notes, often given in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the humid lowlands and foothills of Costa Rica, primarily on the Caribbean slope, with some records extending into northern Panama.
Identifying FeaturesSmall, dark swift, Pale throat and upper breast contrasting with dark body, Long, pointed wings, Short, square tail, Rapid, erratic flight
Description
The Costa Rican Swift is a small, dark swift characterized by its rapid, erratic flight. It spends most of its life in the air, foraging for insects over humid forests and open areas. Its plumage features a distinctive pale throat and upper breast contrasting with its darker body.
