Brown-backed Needletail

The brown-backed needletail, known scientifically as Hirundapus giganteus, is a remarkable avian species. This large swift, measuring an impressive 23 cm in length, is notably larger than its relatives, the Alpine swift and the white-throated needletail. It possesses a robust, barrel-like body and is predominantly dark brown in coloration, with a distinctive white undertail that extends onto the flanks. The species is aptly named for the spined ends of its tail, which, unlike the forked tails of typical swifts in the genus Apus, are not forked.

Identification Tips

When observing the brown-backed needletail, one should look for its heavy-set body and rapid flight, which is swift even by the standards of its family. The white undertail and flanks are key identification features, contrasting with the bird's otherwise dark brown plumage. The tail's spined ends are another characteristic to note, though they may be less visible in flight.

Habitat

These swifts are known to favor hill forests, where they are resident breeders. They have a strong affinity for vertical surfaces, which is reflected in their choice of nesting sites.

Distribution

The brown-backed needletail can be found across southern Asia, with its range extending from India to Indonesia and the Philippines.

Behaviour

This species is highly aerial, spending the majority of its life on the wing. It exhibits a remarkable adaptation in that it seldom, if ever, lands voluntarily on the ground. Instead, it uses its very short legs primarily for clinging to vertical surfaces.

Breeding

The breeding habits of the brown-backed needletail involve constructing nests within rock crevices found on cliffs. They are known to lay clutches of 3-5 eggs.

Similar Species

While similar in build to the white-throated needletail, the brown-backed needletail can be distinguished by its larger size and the white pattern on its undertail and flanks.

Diet and Feeding

Insects form the dietary staple of these swifts, which they adeptly capture with their beaks while in flight.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the brown-backed needletail as Least Concern, indicating that, at present, the species does not face an immediate threat of extinction.