Hemiprocne comata
The Whiskered Treeswift (Hemiprocne comata) is a small, striking aerial insectivore, averaging 15-17 cm (6-7 inches) in length, with a wingspan around 30 cm. Its plumage is a shimmering iridescent bronzy-green or greenish-blue dorsally, contrasting with a white belly and a distinctive white supercilium that extends into long, whisker-like tufts on either side of the head, giving the species its common name. A prominent pointed crest and a deeply forked tail are also key identification feature...
Primarily found in evergreen and deciduous forests, including secondary growth, forest edges, and mangroves. They prefer open areas within or adjacent to forests, often near rivers or clearings, from lowlands up to around 1,200 meters (4,000 feet) elevation.
Exclusively insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of aerial insects such as flies, beetles, bees, wasps, and true bugs. They capture prey on the wing using their wide gape and agile, acrobatic flight.
Whiskered Treeswifts are diurnal, often observed hawking for insects from exposed perches throughout the day, with peaks of activity at dawn and dusk. They spend much of their time in the air, exhibiting remarkable agility as they snatch prey. Unlike true swifts, they regularly perch upright on b...
The Whiskered Treeswift has a wide distribution across Southeast Asia, being resident in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, and the Philippines, as well as parts of southern Thailand, Myanmar, and Brunei. Within this extensive range, several subspecies are recognized, showing minor plumage var...
Least Concern
- The Whiskered Treeswift is the smallest of the four treeswift species, measuring just 15-17 cm. - Unlike true swifts, which can only cling to vertical surfaces, treeswifts (family Hemiprocnidae) possess strong feet and can perch upright on horizontal branches. - Their nest is an astonishingly t...