Malagasy Spinetail
NameMalagasy Spinetail
Common NameMalagasy Spinetail
Scientific NameZoonavena grandidieri
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsPlumage is dark sooty-brown on the upperparts, head, and breast, sharply contrasting with a white lower breast, belly, and undertail-coverts. The tail is short and square, featuring prominent spiny shafts that project beyond the webbing.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid twittering or chattering calls, typically uttered while the bird is in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Madagascar, this species is widespread across the island, particularly favoring humid evergreen forests but also observed over cultivated areas and towns.
Identifying FeaturesSwift-like body shape with long, narrow wings, Dark sooty-brown upperparts contrasting with white underparts, Short, square tail with projecting spiny shafts, Fast, agile flight pattern
Description
The Malagasy Spinetail is a medium-sized swift characterized by its dark sooty-brown upperparts and contrasting white underparts. It is an aerial insectivore, spending most of its active time in swift, agile flight, often over forests and open areas.
