Alpine Swift
Tachymarptis melba
Conservation Status
Least ConcernAves · Apodiformes · Apodidae
About
The alpine swift is a species of swift found in Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. They breed in mountains from southern Europe to the Himalayas. Like common swifts, they are migratory; the southern European population winters further south in southern Africa. They have very short legs which are used for clinging to vertical surfaces. Like most swifts, they never settle voluntarily on the ground, spending most of their lives in the air living on the insects they catch in their beaks.
Fun Fact
It typically breeds below 1,500 m (4,900 ft) but may sometimes go up to 2,300 m (7,500 ft).
Quick Facts
Habitat
Occurs in a larger variety of habitats ranging from sub-desert steppe to mountains.
Diet
Diet consists mainly of arthropods, principally insects but also spiders.
Lifespan
To be updated
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance