Common Swift

Common swifts breed from western Europe across northern and central Asia to the Himalayas and central China, then migrate to southern Africa for winter. They forage above forests, cities, suburbs, and other landscapes supporting abundant flying insects. Adults are 16–17 centimetres long, have wingspans of 42–48 centimetres, and average 44.9 grams. Their dark brownish-black plumage is relieved by a pale throat, while narrow sickle-shaped wings, a moderately forked tail, and a shrill call make them distinctive in flight (Animal Diversity Web).

Common swifts feed entirely on aerial insects and spiders captured while gliding. Aphids, flies, beetles, wasps, bees, and ants are gathered with saliva into compact food balls that may contain hundreds of insects. The birds are monogamous during a breeding season and usually begin reproducing at around two years old. Pairs defend nest sites in colonies, often returning to the same location annually. Nests incorporate grass, leaves, straw, hay, and petals collected and bound together by the birds (Animal Diversity Web).