The Fernando Po swift is a species of swift in the family Apodidae.
Region
West Africa (Gulf of Guinea and nearby mainland)
Typical Environment
Most frequently reported from Bioko Island, with records in adjacent Gulf of Guinea and nearby mainland highlands. It forages over tropical lowland and montane forests, forest edges, and openings, and may also range above agricultural areas and coastal zones. Breeding is presumed on cliffs, rocky outcrops, or in crevices where colonies can cling to vertical surfaces. Outside breeding, it remains largely aerial, following swarms of insects over the canopy.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named after Fernando Po (now Bioko) in Equatorial Guinea, the Fernando Po swift is an aerial insect-eater that spends most of its life on the wing. It likely nests in small colonies on cliffs or rocky crevices and is seen wheeling high over forests and clearings. Like other swifts, it has very short legs and rarely perches except at nest sites.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, scything flight with rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Often seen in small to medium flocks, sometimes mixing with other swift species. Breeds colonially on cliffs or steep structures, attaching nests in crevices or ledges. Pairs are typically monogamous and show strong site fidelity.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, high-pitched screams and chittering calls while in flight. Vocalizations are most frequent around colonies and during display flights.
Plumage
Mostly uniform sooty-brown to blackish with slightly paler throat and underwing coverts; glossy in good light.
Diet
Consumes aerial insects such as flies, beetles, ants, and termites captured on the wing. It tracks insect swarms over forest canopies and open areas and may follow rising thermals where prey concentrates. Feeding is entirely aerial, often coordinated within loose flocks.
Preferred Environment
Hunts above forest edges, clearings, river corridors, and coastal airspace. Frequently forages at varying heights, from just above the canopy to high in open sky.
