Glossy Swiftlet
NameGlossy Swiftlet
Common NameGlossy Swiftlet
Scientific NameCollocalia esculenta
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)10
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are iridescent dark blue-green to blackish, giving a glossy appearance. The underparts are white, often with some dark mottling or streaking on the flanks. The tail is shallowly forked.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include high-pitched chirps, trills, and chattering calls, often given in flight. Some swiftlets in this group also use echolocation clicks for navigation in dark environments.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula, Indonesia, the Philippines, New Guinea, and many Pacific islands.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Glossy dark upperparts, Contrasting white underparts, Shallowly forked tail, Rapid, agile flight
Description
The Glossy Swiftlet is a small, agile swift characterized by its glossy dark upperparts and contrasting white underparts. It flies with rapid wingbeats, often foraging for aerial insects over open areas, forest edges, and human settlements.
