The alpine swift is a species of swift found in Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. They breed in mountains from southern Europe to the Himalayas. Like common swifts, they are migratory; the southern European population winters further south in southern Africa. They have very short legs which are used for clinging to vertical surfaces. Like most swifts, they never settle voluntarily on the ground, spending most of their lives in the air living on the insects they catch in their beaks.
Region
Southern Europe, North Africa, and Asia to the Himalayas
Typical Environment
Breeds on rocky cliffs, gorges, and tall human structures from the Iberian Peninsula and Alps east to the Caucasus and Himalayas. Winters mainly in sub‑Saharan Africa, dispersing widely over savannas and open landscapes. Commonly forages above mountains, coasts, and cities, exploiting updrafts and thermals. Nests are tucked into crevices and ledges, often in colonies.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Alpine swifts are supreme aerialists that can remain aloft for months, even sleeping on the wing during migration. They nest on cliffs and tall buildings, clinging to vertical surfaces with tiny feet and only landing at nest sites. Their long, scythe-like wings and streamlined bodies allow fast, efficient flight over great distances.
Eggs of Tachymarptis melba
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
powerful, fast flier with long glides and rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds colonially on cliffs and tall buildings, returning to traditional sites each year. Pairs are typically monogamous and reuse nests made with saliva-bonded materials. They spend most of life in the air and rarely, if ever, settle on the ground.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Loud, piercing screams given in fast-flying groups around breeding sites. Calls carry far across valleys and urban canyons, often forming excited chorus-like ‘screaming parties’.
Plumage
Contrasting dark brown upperparts and breast with a broad white throat and belly; sleek, glossy feathers with a smooth finish.
Diet
An aerial insectivore that captures flying insects such as flies, beetles, ants, aphids, and small wasps on the wing. It also takes wind-borne spiders and other tiny arthropods. The wide gape funnels prey while in swift, continuous flight, and birds may forage at great heights where insect swarms concentrate.
Preferred Environment
Feeds over open airspace above mountains, ridgelines, coasts, and urban areas, often using thermals and updrafts. After breeding, follows insect-rich weather fronts and convergence zones.
