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Help develop a Bird ID tool!

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.

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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

Field MarksHelp

  • Adult
    Zoom In

    White-throated Swift

    Adult
    • © Herbert Clarke / CLO
  • Adult
    Zoom In

    White-throated Swift

    Adult
    • © Brian E. Small

Similar Species

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