Pallid Swift
NamePallid Swift
Common NamePallid Swift
Scientific NameApus pallidus
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsOverall sooty brown plumage, slightly paler than the Common Swift, with a prominent whitish or pale buff throat patch. The underparts can appear slightly scaly, and the forehead is often paler. The tail is slightly forked.
Vocalization / CallHigh-pitched, screaming calls, often described as a rapid 'sree-sree-sree' or trilling notes, similar to the Common Swift but sometimes slightly lower pitched or harsher.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, urban, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds around the Mediterranean Basin, including southern Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East, extending into parts of Asia. It winters in sub-Saharan Africa.
Identifying FeaturesProminent pale throat patch, Brownish plumage (paler than Common Swift), Long, scythe-like wings, Slightly forked tail
Description
The Pallid Swift is a medium-sized aerial bird, spending most of its life on the wing, feeding on insects. It is characterized by its brownish plumage and distinctive pale throat patch, often seen soaring gracefully in the sky.
