The grey-rumped swiftlet or grey-rumped swiftlet, is a small bird in the swift family Apodidae. It is endemic to the Philippines where it is found on most islands except Mindanao.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Philippines, occurring on most islands except Mindanao. It forages over lowland to lower montane forests, forest edges, agricultural landscapes, and along coastlines. Breeding typically occurs in caves, coastal cliffs, and occasionally sheltered man-made structures. Colonies may be shared with other swiftlets where suitable ledges and overhangs exist.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The grey-rumped swiftlet is a tiny, fast-flying swiftlet endemic to the Philippines, notable for its contrasting pale grey rump against otherwise dark plumage. It often nests colonially on cave walls or sheltered cliffs, using a mix of plant fibers bound with saliva. Unlike some cave swiftlets, it is not known to use echolocation. It is common over forests, farmland, and coastal areas where it hunts insects on the wing.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, agile flight with rapid, flickering wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in small to medium flocks, often mixed with other swiftlets over feeding areas. Nests colonially on ledges in caves or on sheltered rocky overhangs, constructing shallow cup nests from fibers bound with saliva. Pairs are seasonally monogamous and both parents incubate and feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high-pitched chips and twittering trills given in flight, especially over colonies and feeding areas. At nests it gives soft, rapid chatter. Calls are thin and insect-like, carrying well over open spaces.
Plumage
Sooty-brown to dark gray overall with a subtle glossy sheen above; rump distinctly paler gray. Underparts slightly paler, with a faintly lighter throat. Tail short and slightly notched; wings long and scythe-shaped.
Diet
Feeds almost exclusively on small aerial insects such as flies, ants, termites, and beetles captured in continuous flight. It hawks over forest canopies, open fields, river corridors, and coastlines. During termite emergences it may gather in conspicuous mixed flocks. Water sources and ridge lift areas are favored for concentrated foraging.
Preferred Environment
Open airspace above forests, farmland, and along coasts and cliffs. Frequently patrols ridgelines, clearings, and over water where insects are abundant.
