The fork-tailed palm swift or Neotropical palm swift is a species of bird in subfamily Apodinae of the swift family Apodidae. It is found across most of northern South America and on Trinidad and Tobago.
Region
Northern South America and Trinidad and Tobago
Typical Environment
Occurs widely through northern South America, including Venezuela, Colombia (lowlands), the Guianas, northern and central Brazil, and surrounding regions, and on Trinidad and Tobago. It favors open lowland areas where palms are abundant, such as llanos, savannas, riparian corridors, and edges of tropical forests. The species also uses agricultural landscapes and towns if ornamental or cultivated palms are present. Nesting typically takes place under dead or hanging palm fronds, where small, glued cup nests are attached.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Neotropical palm swift, this tiny swift is closely tied to palms, often nesting beneath hanging palm fronds using a glue-like saliva. Its deeply forked tail and scythe-like wings make it easy to spot as it zips over savannas and river edges. It spends most of its life on the wing, catching insects in fast, agile flights.
Fork-tailed palm-swift
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, scything maneuvers; strong aerialist
Social Behavior
Often forages and travels in small to medium flocks, sometimes with other swift species. Nests are placed under drooping palm fronds, constructed from fine fibers and feathers bound with saliva; small colonies or loose aggregations may form. Pairs are likely monogamous, with 1–2 eggs per clutch and shared incubation and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Emits high, thin, twittering chips and rapid trills given in flight, often in excited series during social foraging. Calls are bright but soft, carrying over open habitats as flocks sweep past.
