Welcome Courses

Birds

Examples of Swifts: Apodidae

Swifts (Apodidae) are aerial specialists, spending most of their lives on the wing. They have slender, streamlined bodies, long, scythe-shaped wings, and a unique foot structure that makes them excellent climbers but weak walkers. Swifts feed exclusively on airborne insects and are among the fastest and most enduring fliers in the bird world.

Family: Apodidae
Flight: Exceptional, nearly continuous, with rapid wingbeats
Wings: Long, narrow, and curved ("swallow-like")
Feet: Small, adapted for clinging (Greek apous = "without feet")
Diet: Aerial insectivores

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus)

The Common Swift is a classic representative of the Apodidae family, found throughout much of Europe, Asia, and Africa. They migrate vast distances, spending winters in Africa and summers in the northern hemisphere, and are famous for spending up to 10 months a year on the wing, even sleeping while flying.

Scientific name: Apus apus
Distribution: Europe, Asia, Africa (migratory)
Migration: Long-distance
Flight duration: Up to 10 months airborne annually
Nesting: In urban crevices

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis)

White-throated Swifts are striking with their stark white throats and dark iridescent bodies. They inhabit mountainous and canyon regions in the Americas, often nesting on vertical rock faces. Their aerodynamic bodies enable rapid, agile flight in pursuit of insects.

Scientific name: Aeronautes saxatalis
Distribution: Western North America
Habitat: Mountain canyons
Identification: White throat, rapid flight
Nesting: Cliff crevices

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Needle-tailed Swift (Apus sequens)

Needle-tailed Swifts have remarkable tail feathers that are elongated into thin, needle-like projections, aiding stability during high-speed flight. They are found primarily in tropical and subtropical Asia, soaring over forests and open skies.

Scientific name: Apus sequens
Distribution: Southeast Asia
Tail: Distinctive elongated “needles”
Habitat: Tropical forests and open skies
Flight: Highly maneuverable

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica)

Chimney Swifts are North American natives known for their “cigar-shaped” bodies and stiff tail feathers that act as a rudder for precise navigation. They adapted remarkably well to urban environments, nesting in chimneys and abandoning traditional tree holes due to habitat loss.

Scientific name: Chaetura pelagica
Distribution: Eastern North America
Adaptation: Urban chimneys
Flight: Rapid, darting
Conservation: Declining due to habitat loss

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus)

Fork-tailed Swifts are distinguished by their deeply forked tails, which provide excellent aerial control. They breed in East Asia and Siberia, migrating across vast distances to winter in Southeast Asia and Australia.

Scientific name: Apus pacificus
Tail: Deeply forked
Distribution: East Asia (breeding), Australasia (wintering)
Migration: Long-distance
Aerial abilities: Superb maneuverers

Swifts (Apodidae) are extraordinary birds adapted for life almost entirely on the wing. They exhibit remarkable flight abilities, unique anatomical features, and wide geographic distributions.

Swifts belong to the family Apodidae, meaning "footless," reflecting their small, weak feet.
They consume aerial insects and can remain airborne for months at a time.
Representative species include the Common Swift (Apus apus), Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica), and Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus).

What family do swifts belong to?

Columbidae

Trochilidae

Apodidae

Swifts belong to the family *Apodidae*.

Which species is known for its long-distance migration and spending up to 10 months airborne?

Needle-tailed Swift

Chimney Swift

Common Swift (*Apus apus*)

The Common Swift (*Apus apus*) migrates long distances and can remain airborne for up to 10 months a year.

Which feature is typical of swifts?

Weak legs for walking

Long, narrow wings

Strong feet for perching

Broad, rounded wings

Aerial insectivory

Swifts have long, narrow wings, feed on aerial insects, and have weak legs for walking.

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

Aerial mating of common swift (Apus apus).

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus apus -Barcelona, Spain-8 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Common Swift (Apus apus) (39608505962).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Common Swift Apus apus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Little swift, Apus affinis, at Kruger National Park, South… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common Swift (Apus apus) | Common Swift (Apus apus) captured… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

Common swift / Tårnseiler (apus apus) | Sleeping, eating, ba… | Flickr

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

File:Parachronistis albiceps - Flickr - Bennyboymothman.jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Miltochrista miniata (2037).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

File:Female Violet green Swallow (Tachycineta thalassina) feeding ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

File:Fork-tailed Palm-Swift showing forked tail.jpg - Wikimedia ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Palm-swift 121123 Tachornis squamata | We saw th… | Flickr

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ApusPacificus.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) | Wamboin,… | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift | Fork-tailed Swift - Apus pacificus - Бел… | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

Fork-tailed Swift (Apus pacificus) | Photographed at Kobble … | Flickr

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

File:White-throated Needletail kobble jan05.jpg - Wikipedia

en.m.wikipedia.org

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Apus pacificus 200960625.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1 ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

File:Chaetura pelagica -Perryville, Missouri, USA -chimney-8 (1).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

File:Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) (14568670961).jpg ...

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | VOA Metropark, West Ches… | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

Chimney Swift (Chaetura pelagica) | Dominic Sherony | Flickr

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Chimney swift.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

commons.wikimedia.org

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift, Chaetura pelagica | Tompkins Co. NY 6/3/2014 | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

Chimney Swift | Chaetura pelagica 22 Aug 2012 CA, LA Co., Lo… | Flickr

To which family do swifts belong?

Caprimulgidae

Trochilidae

Apodidae

Swifts belong to the family Apodidae.

Which swift species is known for its needle-like tail feathers?

White-throated swift

Common swift

Needle-tailed swift (*Apus sequens*)

The needle-tailed swift (*Apus sequens*) is distinguished by its needle-like tail feathers.

What are some notable characteristics of swifts?

Feed on airborne insects

Extraordinary aerial abilities

Excellent walkers

Display bright, showy plumage for courtship

Spend most of their life in flight

Swifts have extraordinary aerial abilities, spend most of their life in flight, and feed on airborne insects.

In what type of structure do Chimney Swifts typically nest?

Underground burrows

Open nests in tree canopies

Chimneys and vertical urban structures

Chimney Swifts typically nest in chimneys and other vertical urban structures.

Which swift is characterized by a deeply forked tail and a broad geographic range across Asia?

Chimney swift

White-throated swift

Fork-tailed swift (*Apus pacificus*)

The Fork-tailed swift (*Apus pacificus*) is characterized by a deeply forked tail and a broad geographic range across Asia.

Which are recognized genera within the swift family *Apodidae*?

*Aeronautes*

*Apus*

*Trochilus*

*Columba*

*Chaetura*

Genera within *Apodidae* include *Apus*, *Chaetura*, and *Aeronautes*. *Trochilus* is a hummingbird genus, and *Columba* is for pigeons.

What primary food source do adult swifts consume?

Seeds and fruits

Nectar

Flying insects

Adult swifts consume flying insects.

Where are swifts typically found during their breeding season?

Cliffs and rock faces

Open ground

Dense forest floor

Urban areas with suitable crevices

Swifts typically breed on cliffs, rock faces, or urban areas with suitable crevices.

How long can a Common Swift remain airborne during its annual routine?

A few weeks

A few days

Up to 10 months

The Common Swift can remain airborne for up to 10 months annually.

Which continents do swifts inhabit?

Americas

Asia

Antarctica

Europe

Africa

Swifts are found in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.