Cypsiurus parvus
The African Palm Swift (Cypsiurus parvus) is a remarkably slender and agile aerial insectivore, instantly recognizable by its long, scythe-like wings and deeply forked tail, often held closed to appear needle-like. Measuring approximately 16 cm (6.3 inches) in length with a wingspan of about 38 cm (15 inches), its plumage is a uniform, dull grey-brown, providing excellent camouflage against the sky. Distinguishing field marks include its pale, dingy underparts, constant aerial activity, and d...
Primarily found in areas abundant with palm trees, including savannas, coastal regions, plantations, and even urban and suburban environments. It typically occurs from sea level up to moderate elevations, dependent on palm availability.
Exclusively aerial insectivores, feeding primarily on a wide variety of small flying insects such as beetles, flies, ants, bees, wasps, and termites. It captures prey expertly on the wing while soaring and diving.
The African Palm Swift is almost perpetually airborne during daylight hours, exhibiting exceptional agility as it tirelessly pursues insects. Its daily cycle culminates in roosting, where it clings vertically, often in large numbers, to the undersides of palm fronds. Foraging is a masterful displ...
The African Palm Swift boasts an extensive and robust distribution across much of sub-Saharan Africa, stretching from Senegal in the west across to Ethiopia and Somalia in the east, and southwards through to South Africa. Its range also encompasses Madagascar, the Comoros Islands, and extends int...
Least Concern
- The African Palm Swift gets its name from its strong, almost exclusive, association with palm trees for nesting and roosting. - Its unique nest is a tiny, shallow cup made of feathers and plant material, glued together with its own saliva and attached to the underside of a vertical palm frond. ...