Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift
NameLesser Swallow-tailed Swift
Common NameLesser Swallow-tailed Swift
Scientific NamePanyptila cayennensis
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)21
Plumage DetailsPredominantly black with a broad white collar that extends around the nape and onto the throat and breast. It also has white flanks, contrasting sharply with its dark upperparts and belly. The tail is deeply forked.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of high-pitched, thin, and squeaky or twittering calls, often given while in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Mexico through Central America, and extensively across northern and central South America, including countries like Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, and northern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesDeeply forked tail, Black and white plumage, Broad white collar, Long, sickle-shaped wings, Small size
Description
This small swift is characterized by its striking black and white plumage and a deeply forked tail. It is an aerial species, spending most of its life in flight, often seen soaring rapidly over open areas and forest edges.
