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White-throated Swift

Aeronautes saxatalis ORDER: APODIFORMES FAMILY: APODIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

White-throated Swift Photo

© Herbert Clarke / CLO

One of the fastest flying birds in North America, the White-throated Swift is a common sight in the canyons, foothills, and mountains of the American West.

Inside Birding
For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Swallowlike
Swallowlike
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Small bird.
  • Black back, wings, and tail.
  • White throat, belly, and sides of rump.
  • Body cylindrical.
  • Wings long, pointed, and swept back.

Immature Description

Similar to adult, but duller.

Range Map Help

White-throated Swift Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Similar Species

  • All other swifts lack black-and-white pattern.
  • Violet-green Swallow is pure white below, and lacks black sides and flanks.