Mottled Swift
NameMottled Swift
Common NameMottled Swift
Scientific NameTachymarptis aequatorialis
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)52.5
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)107.5
Plumage DetailsOverall dark sooty-brown plumage with a prominent white belly patch that is often mottled or streaked with brown. It also features a distinct white throat patch. The upperparts are uniformly dark.
Vocalization / CallA loud, high-pitched, screaming 'sree-sree-sree' or 'sree-ee-ee' often given in flight, sometimes described as a rapid chattering or trilling.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, urban, forest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Ethiopia south to South Africa, and also found in parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a swift, Broad wings, White mottled belly patch, White throat patch, Slightly forked tail, Powerful, high-flying aerial foraging
Description
The Mottled Swift is a large, robust swift known for its powerful and agile flight. It spends most of its life in the air, foraging for insects high above cliffs and open country. This species is characterized by its broad wings and distinctive plumage.
