Gray-rumped Swiftlet
NameGray-rumped Swiftlet
Common NameGray-rumped Swiftlet
Scientific NameAerodramus spodiopygius
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)11
Plumage DetailsDark sooty-brown upperparts with a contrasting pale gray rump. The underparts are paler, grayish-brown, and the wings are long and pointed. It has a slightly forked tail.
Vocalization / CallEmits high-pitched chirps and chattering calls, and is known for using echolocation clicks to navigate in dark environments like caves.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern Pacific, including Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, New Caledonia, and Lord Howe Island (Australia).
Identifying Featurespale gray rump, long pointed wings, fast erratic flight, echolocation ability
Description
A small, dark swiftlet with long, pointed wings adapted for aerial life. It is characterized by its dusky upperparts and a distinctive pale gray rump, often seen foraging in flocks over various tropical habitats, including near human settlements.
