Scarce Swift
NameScarce Swift
Common NameScarce Swift
Scientific NameSchoutedenapus myoptilus
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsUniformly dark brown or sooty black plumage, often appearing entirely dark against the sky. Specific markings are generally indistinct.
Vocalization / CallHigh-pitched, rapid 'sree-sree-sree' or 'tsip-tsip-tsip' calls, typical of swifts, often given in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in scattered populations across central and eastern Africa, including parts of Cameroon, Congo, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia, typically in montane regions.
Identifying FeaturesLong, narrow, scythe-like wings, Short, slightly forked tail, Uniformly dark plumage, Fast, agile flight at high altitudes
Description
The Scarce Swift is a medium-sized aerial bird, spending most of its life in flight, foraging for insects. It is characterized by its long, narrow, scythe-like wings and uniformly dark plumage, making it challenging to observe details against the sky. This species exhibits rapid and agile flight patterns.
