Philippine Swiftlet
NamePhilippine Swiftlet
Common NamePhilippine Swiftlet
Scientific NameAerodramus mearnsi
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)11.5
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsOverall sooty brown to dark grey-brown plumage, often appearing slightly paler on the underparts. There are no prominent markings or color patterns.
Vocalization / CallProduces high-pitched twittering and chattering calls, often in flight. Like other swiftlets, it also uses echolocation clicks for navigation in dark environments such as caves.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Philippines, found across many islands including Luzon, Mindanao, Negros, Panay, and others, typically in forested and mountainous regions.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Dark sooty plumage, Long, pointed wings, Short, slightly forked tail, Rapid, erratic flight, Aerial foraging
Description
The Philippine Swiftlet is a small, aerial bird characterized by its sleek, dark plumage and long, pointed wings. It spends most of its life in flight, foraging for insects high in the sky. This species is known for its rapid, erratic flight patterns.
