The Andean swift is a species of bird in subfamily Apodinae of the swift family Apodidae. It is found in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, and Peru.
Region
Andes Mountains
Typical Environment
Occurs along the central and southern Andes of Peru, Bolivia, northern Chile, and northwestern Argentina. It favors arid to semi-arid montane landscapes with abundant cliffs, ravines, and rocky canyons. Birds commonly forage over intermontane valleys, puna edges, and along ridgelines where updrafts concentrate flying insects. Nesting typically takes place on vertical rock faces or in crevices, sometimes near waterfalls or overhangs that provide protection.
Altitude Range
800–4500 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
An expert aerialist, the Andean swift spends most of its life on the wing, drinking and feeding in flight. It nests on sheer rock faces and in canyon walls, often in small colonies. The species is adapted to thin, windy Andean air and frequently rides updrafts along cliffs and ridgelines.
Andean swift flying
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, agile flier with rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Often forages in loose flocks, sometimes mixing with other swift species. Breeds in small colonies on cliffs, placing nests in crevices and ledges and binding materials with saliva. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and defend the immediate nest site.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives high-pitched twitters and dry, rapid chips while in flight. Near colonies, calls can become a busy chorus of thin trills and squeaks that carry across canyons.
Plumage
Sooty-brown to blackish overall with slightly paler, gray-brown underparts; small, paler throat; underwing coverts somewhat lighter than flight feathers; tail shallowly forked.
Diet
Feeds almost exclusively on aerial insects, including flies, winged ants, small beetles, and moths. Captures prey on the wing using swift, agile maneuvers and by coursing along ridgelines where insects concentrate. Will exploit insect hatches after rain and sometimes follows updrafts to intercept swarms.
Preferred Environment
Most often feeds over rocky canyons, open valleys, and along escarpments and cliffs. Also hunts above towns and agricultural fields that lie adjacent to steep slopes or ravines.
