The chestnut-collared swift is a species of bird in subfamily Cypseloidinae of the swift family Apodidae. It is found from Mexico and Trinidad south to Peru and Bolivia.
Region
Mesoamerica and northern Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs from the highlands of Mexico through Central America and Trinidad south along the Andes to Peru and Bolivia. It favors humid montane and foothill zones, often over cloud forest, forest edges, and open valleys. Birds forage widely over ridgelines, river corridors, and agricultural clearings. Roosting and nesting typically occur on sheer cliffs and behind waterfalls.
Altitude Range
500–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This swift spends most of its life on the wing, catching insects in fast, acrobatic flight. It often roosts and nests on vertical rock faces, frequently behind waterfalls where spray keeps predators at bay. Flocks commonly mix with other swift species over ridges and valleys. The warm chestnut collar is the key field mark, separating it from the larger white-collared swift.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, powerful flight with rapid wingbeats and long glides
Social Behavior
Usually seen in medium to large flocks, often mixed with other swifts. Nests colonially on vertical rock faces, frequently near or behind waterfalls. Pairs are presumed monogamous, returning to traditional roost and nest sites annually.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched chips and trills given in flight. Calls carry well over valleys and are most frequent when flocking or at roost sites.
Plumage
Sooty-black to dark brown overall with a distinct, warm chestnut collar around the hindneck; slight glossy sheen above. Throat may appear subtly paler in some birds; underparts uniformly dusky.
Diet
An aerial insectivore that takes flying ants, termites, beetles, flies, wasps, and other small insects. Foraging often intensifies during insect emergences, especially after rains. It captures prey on the wing, frequently at considerable heights over terrain features that concentrate insects.
Preferred Environment
Typically feeds over forested slopes, ridgelines, rivers, and open clearings bordering montane forest. Also hunts above towns and agricultural areas near suitable roosting cliffs.
