Aerodramus hirundinaceus
The Mountain Swiftlet, *Aerodramus hirundinaceus*, is a sleek, medium-sized aerial insectivore, typically measuring 11-13 cm in length with a weight of 10-14 grams. Its plumage is uniformly glossy blackish-brown overall, appearing slightly paler on the rump and uppertail coverts, a subtle field mark that can aid in identification. Characterized by long, slender, scythe-like wings and a moderately forked tail, it exhibits the quintessential swift flight profile. Taxonomically, it belongs to th...
Primarily inhabiting montane and submontane forests, the Mountain Swiftlet is found from sea level up to 3,000 meters. It exclusively utilizes dark cave systems for roosting and breeding.
The Mountain Swiftlet is an obligate aerial insectivore, feeding exclusively on small flying insects captured on the wing.
Mountain Swiftlets are highly social birds, forming large, noisy colonies within the deep recesses of caves where they roost nocturnally. During daylight hours, they are active aerial foragers, continuously patrolling the skies above forests in pursuit of insects. Their foraging technique involve...
The Mountain Swiftlet is endemic to the island of New Guinea and several surrounding islands in the southwestern Pacific. Its primary breeding and resident range encompasses the vast montane and submontane forest regions across mainland New Guinea, including both the Indonesian provinces of Papua...
Least Concern
- The Mountain Swiftlet is one of the few bird species in the world capable of echolocation, emitting audible clicks to navigate in total darkness within caves. - Their nests are largely constructed from solidified saliva, a remarkable feat of natural engineering that hardens to form a sturdy cup...