White-rumped Swift
NameWhite-rumped Swift
Common NameWhite-rumped Swift
Scientific NameApus caffer
FamilyApodidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsOverall sooty black plumage, contrasting sharply with a prominent white rump patch. It also has a small, pale white patch on the throat, which can be difficult to see. The wings are long and scythe-like.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of high-pitched, rapid, chattering calls, often described as a 'sree-sree-sree' or 'chi-chi-chi' sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsurban, grassland, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across much of Sub-Saharan Africa, extending into parts of southern Europe (Iberian Peninsula) and the Middle East. Northern populations are migratory, wintering further south in Africa.
Identifying FeaturesProminent white rump patch, Sooty black plumage, Long, scythe-like wings, Fast, erratic flight, Small pale throat patch
Description
The White-rumped Swift is a medium-sized swift with a distinctive white rump patch. It is an aerial insectivore, spending most of its life on the wing, often seen in fast, erratic flight over open country.
