White-throated Needletail

Overview

The white-throated needletail, also known as the needle-tailed swift, is a large swift in the genus Hirundapus. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and is known for its remarkable aerial capabilities.

Identification

• A robust, barrel-like body measuring approximately 20 cm (7.9 in) in length and weighing between 110 and 120 grams.
• Greyish-brown plumage featuring a distinct white throat and a white patch extending from the base of the tail to the flanks.
• A spined tail that is not forked, distinguishing it from typical swifts of the genus Apus.

Habitat

This migratory bird breeds in Central Asia and southern Siberia, while wintering in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. It constructs its nests in rock crevices on cliffs or in hollow trees and strongly avoids the ground.

Diet

The species feeds exclusively on small, flying insects such as beetles, flies, bees, and moths, which it captures in the air.

Did you know?

An individual spotted in Great Britain in June 2013 flew into a wind turbine and died; its body was subsequently sent to a museum.