White-throated Needletail

The White-throated Needletail, known scientifically as Hirundapus caudacutus, is a remarkable swift, boasting a robust, barrel-like body. This avian marvel is predominantly greyish-brown, adorned with a distinctive white throat and a white patch that extends from the base of the tail to the flanks. With an average length of about 20 cm and a weight ranging between 110 and 120 grams, it is a large member of its genus.

Identification Tips

One can identify the White-throated Needletail by its unique tail, which ends in a spine rather than the typical fork seen in other swifts. This feature, along with its stout body and contrasting white markings, makes it unmistakable in the field.

Habitat

These swifts favor the high cliffs and hollow trees for nesting, where they can tuck their nests into rock crevices, safely away from ground predators.

Distribution

A migratory species, the White-throated Needletail breeds in the vast expanses of Central Asia and southern Siberia. When the northern winter beckons, it travels to warmer climes, wintering in the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. Occasionally, it appears as a rare vagrant in Western Europe.

Behaviour

The White-throated Needletail is an aerial specialist, spending most of its life on the wing. It is seldom seen on the ground, preferring the freedom of the skies. It is reputed to be one of the fastest flying birds, potentially reaching speeds of up to 170 km/h in horizontal flight, although this speed remains unverified.

Diet and Feeding

In flight, it captures small, flying insects such as beetles, flies, bees, and moths, showcasing its incredible agility and speed.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the White-throated Needletail as Least Concern, indicating that, for now, this species does not face immediate threats to its survival.

Similar Species

While its general swift-like appearance may cause confusion, the White-throated Needletail's size, distinctive tail, and white throat patch set it apart from other swift species.

Breeding

The breeding habits of the White-throated Needletail involve selecting inaccessible nesting sites on cliffs or in hollow trees, which provide protection and seclusion for their offspring.

Song & calls

The vocalizations of the White-throated Needletail are less well-documented, but like other swifts, it likely has a series of high-pitched calls used for communication while in flight.

In summary, the White-throated Needletail is a swift of impressive speed and agility, with a wide migratory range and a preference for life in the air. Its conservation status remains stable, allowing birdwatchers the continued opportunity to observe this swift's remarkable flight.