Asian Palm Swift

Overview

The Asian palm swift is a small swift species found across tropical Asia, ranging from India to the Philippines. It is very similar to the African palm swift and was formerly considered part of the same species.

Identification

• 13 cm long slender body, mainly pale brown in colour.
• Long swept-back wings that resemble a crescent or a boomerang.
• Long, deeply forked tail that is usually held closed.
• Very short legs used only for clinging to vertical surfaces.
• Loud, shrill scream.

Habitat

This bird is a common resident breeder in tropical Asia, inhabiting open country and cultivation areas. It is strongly associated with oil palms and constructs its nest by gluing it to the underside of a palm leaf with saliva.

Diet

These swifts spend most of their lives in the air, feeding on insects caught in their beaks. They often feed near the ground and drink on the wing.

Did you know?

The down and feather nest is glued to the underside of a palm leaf with saliva, which is also used to secure the usually two or three eggs.