The giant swiftlet, also known as the waterfall swift, is a species of bird in the swift family, Apodidae. It is the only member of the monotypic genus Hydrochous. It is found in Malaysia, Sumatra and Java, where its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist montane forests and rivers. It is threatened by habitat loss.
Region
Sundaland, Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Java, chiefly along fast-flowing forest streams and near waterfalls. It favors subtropical to tropical moist montane forests, often in steep ravines and gorges. Nest sites are typically on vertical, spray-soaked rock faces behind falls, providing constant humidity and protection from predators. Foraging commonly takes place over rivers, pools, and forest clearings close to running water. It is highly tied to intact riparian forest corridors.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The giant swiftlet, also called the waterfall swift, is the sole member of the monotypic genus Hydrochous. It specializes in nesting on wet rock ledges behind or beside waterfalls, where constant spray keeps the site slippery and protected. Its powerful, agile flight lets it skim low over torrents to catch insects. Habitat loss and alteration of river systems threaten suitable nesting and feeding sites.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, direct flight with rapid wingbeats; often low over water; strong flier
Social Behavior
Breeds colonially on spray-drenched rock walls near waterfalls. Pairs construct nests of moss and plant fibers bound with saliva on vertical surfaces. Likely monogamous within a season, with both parents attending the nest. Roosting occurs at or near breeding sites, often with conspecifics.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp chips and rattling twitters, often given in flight over rivers. Near colonies, birds produce persistent, high-pitched chatter that carries over the noise of falling water.
Plumage
Sooty to dark brown overall with a slightly paler throat and underbody; feathers appear matte rather than glossy. Tail is shallowly forked and wings are long and scythe-like.
Diet
Feeds almost exclusively on aerial insects such as mayflies, caddisflies, beetles, ants, and other small flying arthropods. It hawks prey on the wing, using swift, agile maneuvers over currents and pools. Foraging often concentrates where emergent aquatic insects are abundant. During wet weather it continues to feed low over streams where insects accumulate.
Preferred Environment
Most commonly forages above fast-flowing rivers, cascades, and forested ravines close to nesting waterfalls. It also ranges over adjacent forest edges and clearings but remains tied to riparian zones.
