Forbes-Watson's swift is a species of swift in the family Apodidae. It breeds in coastal areas of Somalia and the southern Arabian Peninsula and on the island of Socotra. In the non-breeding season it has been observed as far south as coastal Mozambique.
Region
Horn of Africa and southern Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Breeds on coastal cliffs and offshore islands of Somalia, Yemen (including Socotra), and southern Oman. In the non-breeding season it disperses along the western Indian Ocean coast, with records from Kenya to Mozambique. It forages widely over arid coastal plains, wadis, and nearshore waters. Nests are placed in crevices and ledges on sea cliffs, often in small colonies.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Forbes-Watson's swift breeds on sea cliffs around Somalia, Yemen (including Socotra), and Oman, and disperses south along the East African coast after breeding. It is often confused with Little Swift but lacks a bold white rump patch and shows a paler throat. The species spends most of its life on the wing, feeding and drinking in flight. It was named in honor of British ornithologist D. Forbes-Watson.
Temperament
social and aerial
Flight Pattern
fast with rapid wingbeats and brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically forms small to medium flocks, often mixing with other swift species over coastal areas. Breeds colonially on sea cliffs, using crevices and ledges for nesting. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and exhibit strong site fidelity.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Gives high-pitched, chittering calls and sharp screams during flight, especially around colonies. Vocalizations are rapid and insect-like, carrying well over cliff faces and coastal winds.
Plumage
Sooty to dark brown overall with slightly paler underparts and a contrasting pale throat; subtle pale feather fringes can give a faint scaly effect below.
Diet
Feeds on small aerial insects such as flies, ants, termites, and small beetles captured on the wing. It often exploits insect swarms generated by coastal updrafts and storm fronts. Foraging is highly energetic and continuous, with birds covering wide areas over land and sea.
Preferred Environment
Most commonly hunts over coastal cliffs, beaches, and adjacent arid plains, and frequently ranges over nearshore waters. It may also forage above towns and wadis where insects concentrate.
