Pallid Swift

Apus pallidus

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Brief #

Entirely dark except for a large white throat patch which is frequently visible from a distance.

Synonyms #

  • Vencejo pálido (Spanish)
  • Cirrio pálido (Galician)

Red List Status #

The Pallid Swift is unlikely to become extinct in the near future.
Find out more about IUCN's Red List program here

Description #

Very similar to the common swift, and separation is only possible with good views. Like its relative, it has a short forked tail and very long swept-back wings that resemble a crescent or a boomerang. It is entirely dark except for a large white throat patch which is frequently visible from a distance. It is chunkier and browner than common swift, and the slightly paler flight feathers, underparts and rump give more contrast than that species. It also has a scalier looking belly and subtly different flight action. The call is a loud dry scream similar to that of its relative, though possibly more disyllabic.

Measurements #

Length: 16 - 17 cm
Wingspan: 42 - 46 cm
Weight: 41 - 41 g