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White-throated Swift Identification

White-throated Swift

Larger-bodied swift with a long tail and long, arched wings. Note white throat, chest, and sides of rump.

© Matt Davis | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, February 25, 2017
White-throated Swift

Chunky, tube-shaped swift with a long tail and wings. The throat, chest, and sides of the rump are white.

© Mel Senac | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, April 22, 2017
White-throated Swift

Fast moving swift that flies on stiff, arched wings. Found near cliffs and canyon as well as human-made structures such as freeway overpasses, and bridges.

© Gregory Griffith | Macaulay LibraryColorado, July 01, 1992
White-throated Swift

Fast flying and acrobatic swift with a white throat and chest.

© Brian Sullivan | Macaulay LibraryCalifornia, March 20, 2012
White-throated Swift

Nests and roosts in crevices in cliffs, canyon walls, and large rocks as well as human-made structures such as freeway overpasses, and bridges.

© Bill Maynard | Macaulay LibraryColorado, September 22, 2014
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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.
Relative Size

Relative Sizebetween sparrow and robinbetween sparrow and robin
Measurements
  • Both Sexes
    • Length: 5.9-7.1 in (15-18 cm)
    • Weight: 1.0-1.3 oz (28-36 g)

Species in This Family

Swifts(Order: Caprimulgiformes, Family:Apodidae)

Black SwiftBlack Swift
Chimney SwiftChimney Swift
Vaux's SwiftVaux's Swift
White-throated SwiftWhite-throated Swift

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