Mariana Swiftlet
NameMariana Swiftlet
Common NameMariana Swiftlet
Scientific NameAerodramus bartschi
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsOverall dark sooty brown plumage, appearing almost black in flight. The underparts are slightly paler than the upperparts. The tail is slightly forked.
Vocalization / CallEmits high-pitched clicks and chirps for echolocation, particularly when navigating dark environments. Also produces twittering and chattering calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal, urban
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Mariana Islands in the western Pacific Ocean, including Guam, Saipan, Tinian, Aguijan, and Rota.
Identifying FeaturesDark sooty plumage, Slightly forked tail, Fast, erratic flight, Echolocation ability, Nests in caves
Description
The Mariana Swiftlet is a small, dark swiftlet endemic to the Mariana Islands. It is known for its rapid, erratic flight and its ability to echolocate, which it uses to navigate and forage in dark caves where it nests.
