The Andean Swift is a small bird that measures around 15 cm in length. It has a dark brownish-black plumage with a slightly paler throat and underparts. Its wings are long and narrow, and it has a short, forked tail. The Andean Swift is found in the high Andes mountains of South America, where it feeds on insects while flying at high altitudes. It is a highly aerial bird and is rarely seen perched.
Characteristics and Facts About Andean Swift
1. Small size: Andean Swifts are relatively small birds, measuring around 15-17 cm in length.
2. Dark plumage: These birds have dark, glossy plumage that is mostly black or dark brown in color.
3. Long, pointed wings: Andean Swifts have long, pointed wings that are adapted for fast, agile flight.
4. Forked tail: Their tail is forked, with two long, pointed feathers that help them maneuver in the air.
5. High-altitude habitat: Andean Swifts are found in the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains, where they can be seen flying at dizzying heights.
6. Insectivorous diet: These birds feed primarily on insects, which they catch in flight.
7. Social behavior: Andean Swifts are highly social birds, often seen flying in large flocks or roosting together in communal nests.
8. Fast flight: These birds are incredibly fast fliers, capable of reaching speeds of up to 100 km/h.
9. Noisy calls: Andean Swifts are known for their loud, chattering calls, which they use to communicate with each other while flying.
10. Breeding habits: These birds breed in communal nests, which they build on cliffs or in other high places. They lay a single egg, which is incubated by both parents.