Panyptila sanctihieronymi
The Great Swallow-tailed Swift (Panyptila sanctihieronymi) is a striking medium-sized swift, measuring 18-20 cm in length with a wingspan of approximately 40-42 cm, instantly recognizable by its exceptionally long, deeply forked tail. Its plumage features iridescent blackish upperparts that starkly contrast with pure white underparts and a distinctive white collar that nearly encircles its nape. This master of aerial life belongs to the Apodidae family, distantly related to hummingbirds but n...
Primarily found in arid to semi-arid tropical deciduous forests, open woodlands, and canyons. It prefers areas with prominent cliffs or rock formations for nesting, usually at elevations ranging from 400 to 1800 meters.
Exclusively insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of small flying insects such as flies, beetles, ants, and wasps. It captures prey mid-air using its wide, capacious gape during continuous foraging flights.
Highly aerial and diurnal, spending virtually its entire day on the wing, often soaring at great heights. Roosting typically occurs within its unique tubular nests or on vertical rock faces. Foraging involves continuous, agile aerial hawking, deftly capturing flying insects in its wide gape. Thes...
Found primarily in Central America, its range extends from southern Mexico (Chiapas) through Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua, south to northern Costa Rica. This species is largely resident throughout its distribution, exhibiting local movements rather than long-distance migration....
Least Concern
- Its scientific name, *sanctihieronymi*, translates to 'of St. Jerome,' named after the town of San Jerónimo, Guatemala, where the species was first described. - The Great Swallow-tailed Swift spends almost its entire life airborne, even mating and collecting nesting material in flight. - Unlike...