SANParks.org Forums

Swift, White-rumped; Apus caffer

This swift flew into our house and got entangled in a curtain, giving a rare opportunity to take close-ups of a bird nornmally only seen in flight!


The extent of white feathers on the rump


A handsome bird - note the white chin and throat

These graceful flyers are gragerious birds that migrate in flocks up to 100 strong. They roost in or nearby their nests from shortly after sunset to just before sunrise as well as during the day when it is windy. The swifts drink on the wing by skimming the surface of water.

The bird's grip was surprisingly powerful for such small feet!