White-throated Needletail

Hirundapus caudacutus

Conservation Status

Least Concern

Aves · Apodiformes · Apodidae

About

The white-throated needletail, also known as the needle-tailed swift or spine-tailed swift, is a large swift in the genus Hirundapus. It is reputed to reach speeds of up to 170 km/h (110 mph) in horizontal flight, but this is unverified because the methods used to measure its speed have not been published. 75 km/h (47 mph) is more likely, but this is still at least 100 times the bird's length per second.

Fun Fact

The White-throated Needletail is the fastest level-flying bird in the world, reaching speeds of 170 km/h in direct flight.

Quick Facts

Habitat

To be updated

Diet

Feed on small, flying insects like beetles, flies, bees and moths.

Lifespan

To be updated

Threats

Habitat Change
Human Disturbance

External Data Sources

Recent sightings on iNaturalist IUCN Red List profile

More Birds Species

Abbott's Booby EN African Penguin CR Alagoas Tyrannulet CR Aldabra Fody EN Algerian Nuthatch EN Amani Sunbird EN

Browse all Birds →