The drab swiftlet is a small bird in the swift family Apodidae. It is endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands in Indonesia. It was formerly treated as a subspecies of the glossy swiftlet.
Region
Lesser Sunda Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on various islands of the Lesser Sundas, including Sumbawa, Flores, Sumba, Timor and nearby islets. It frequents lowland and foothill evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, forest edges, and wooded valleys. The species also forages over open country, agricultural land, and coastal zones, and may roost or nest in limestone caves and occasionally buildings. Colonies are often near rugged karst or volcanic terrain with suitable crevices.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A recent split from the glossy swiftlet complex, the drab swiftlet lacks the metallic sheen of its relatives and appears uniformly dull brown. It forms fast-flying flocks over forests and villages and typically nests in caves or crevices using plant fibers bound with saliva. Unlike some cave swiftlets, it does not rely on echolocation. It is endemic to the Lesser Sunda Islands of Indonesia.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile, sweeping turns
Social Behavior
Often forms loose to dense aerial flocks, especially over ridgelines and valleys where insects concentrate. Nests colonially on cave walls or crevices, constructing cup-like nests of plant fibers bound with saliva. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and defend only the immediate nest site.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin twittering and rapid chips delivered in flight; calls are more functional than musical. Vocalizations aid flock cohesion while foraging over open spaces.
