Horus Swift

The Horus swift, a small yet robust member of the swift family Apodidae, measures between 13 to 15 centimeters in length. Its plumage is predominantly blackish, with a distinctive white patch on the chin and a contrasting white rump. The bird's tail is of medium length and forked, contributing to its agile aerial maneuvers.

Identification Tips

When observing the Horus swift, look for its fluttering flight pattern, which is reminiscent of the little swift. Key distinguishing features include its white chin patch and the extent of white on the rump, which is less than that of the little swift. The Horus swift's tail is less deeply forked than that of the white-rumped swift, and its white band is broader.

Habitat

This swift favors the skies above sub-Saharan Africa, where it can be found breeding in old burrows of bee-eaters, ground woodpeckers, kingfishers, and martins. These burrows are often located in natural or artificial sandy banks, providing the Horus swift with suitable nesting sites.

Distribution

The Horus swift enjoys a widespread presence across eastern and southern South Africa, extending north to southern Zambia and central Mozambique. Its range also includes discontinuous populations throughout sub-Saharan Africa, with significant numbers in the Ethiopian mountains and from central Kenya to Uganda. The species' range is somewhat obscured by identification challenges. South African Horus swifts are migratory, spending winters further north, while other populations are resident with only local movements.

Behaviour

Breeding Horus swifts construct a flat nest of vegetation and hair, secured with saliva, at the end of their chosen tunnel. They lay 1 to 4 eggs, which are incubated for 28 days until hatching. The fledglings remain in the nest for approximately 6 weeks. Although not colonial, the nature of their breeding habitat means that multiple pairs may be found within a bee-eater or banded martin colony. For feeding, they prefer middle levels over adjacent habitats and tend to avoid large towns.

Song & Calls

The Horus swift communicates with a buzzing call that can be transcribed as "peeeeooo, peeeeooo," a sound that is characteristic of this species.

Breeding

The Horus swift's breeding strategy involves utilizing old burrows in sandy banks, where it lays a clutch of 1 to 4 eggs. The incubation period lasts 28 days, followed by a fledging period of about 6 weeks.

Similar Species

The Horus swift can be confused with the little swift and the white-rumped swift. However, it can be differentiated by its tail shape and the extent of white on its rump.

Diet and Feeding

This swift feeds at middle levels over various habitats adjacent to its nesting sites. It captures insects in flight, demonstrating remarkable agility and precision.

Conservation status

The Horus swift is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it does not face any immediate threat of extinction.