Plain Swift

Apus unicolor - Martinet unicolore

Systematics

Order
:
Apodiformes
Family
:
Apodidés
Genus
:
Apus
Species
:
unicolor

Descriptor

Jardine, 1830

Biometrics

Size
: 15 cm
Wingspan
: 36 à 39 cm.
Weight
: -

Geographic range

Distribution

Identification

The Plain Swift is very similar to the Common Swift (Apus apus). It can be distinguished by a slightly smaller size, more acute forking at the tail, and a much smaller (often seemingly absent) white spot on the chin. In places where these two species and the Pallid Swift (Apus pallidus) are present, the identification of one or the other requires attention when observed alone. However, if the species are present together, the identification is easier.

Subspecific information monotypic species

Foreign names

Martinet unicolore,
Vencejo unicolor,
andorinhão-da-serra,
Einfarbsegler,
egyszínű sarlósfecske,
Madeiragierzwaluw,
Rondone unicolore,
enfärgad seglare,
Kanariseiler,
dážďovník morský,
rorýs jednobarvý,
Ensfarvet Sejler,
madeirankiitäjä,
falciot unicolor,
Niðsvölungur,
jerzyk jednobarwny,
vienmuļā svīre,
enobarvni hudournik,
Одноцветный стриж,
ハイイロアマツバメ,
纯色雨燕,
純色雨燕,

Voice song and call

play
pause

There is practically no difference with the calls of the Plain Swift.

Habitat

Only reproduces in the Canary Islands and Madeira. On these islands, it is present everywhere, both in towns and above agricultural areas or forests.

Behaviour character trait

Part of the Plain Swift population appears to be sedentary. At least, the species is visible throughout the year, though in smaller numbers during the winter. It seems that part of the birds winter in the south coasts of Morocco. The general behaviour is similar to that of the Black Swift, in both its hunting habits and loud chase. Often seen in the company of the other two species present in the islands, this is a gregarious species.

Flight

For my part, I have not noticed any visible differences in the flight of the Plain swift. Very rapid wingbeat that sometimes appear desynchronized, long soaring flights with wings raised, among others...

Dietfeeding habits

Only insects captured on the fly.

Reproduction nesting

The Plain Swift is a colonial species. Its nests are usually built in deep crevices of maritime and continental cliffs, much more rarely under bridges or in houses. They are made of pieces of grass and feathers bonded by saliva. The laying is usually two eggs. Almost nothing is known about the reproductive biology of this species. It seems that both sexes incubate and that there are often two clutches.