White-chinned Swift
NameWhite-chinned Swift
Common NameWhite-chinned Swift
Scientific NameCypseloides cryptus
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)24
Plumage DetailsPredominantly dark sooty brown to blackish plumage. Features a distinctive, though often variable and sometimes reduced, white patch on the chin and throat.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid 'tsee-tsee-tsee' or 'chip-chip-chip' notes, typically uttered in flight.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America to Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru, primarily in montane regions.
Identifying FeaturesDark sooty brown to blackish plumage, Variable white chin and throat patch, Long, pointed wings, Relatively short, square tail, Clings to vertical surfaces like tree trunks or cliffs
Description
The White-chinned Swift is a medium-sized, dark-plumaged swift known for its aerial lifestyle. It spends most of its time in flight, foraging for insects, and typically nests on vertical surfaces like cliffs or behind waterfalls. Its dark body contrasts with a variable white patch on its chin and throat.
