The Malagasy black swift or Madagascar swift, is a species of swift in the family Apodidae. It is endemic to Madagascar and the Comoro Islands.
Region
Madagascar and Comoro Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs widely over Madagascar and the Comoros, especially where cliffs and steep rocky faces provide nesting crevices. It forages above forests, savannas, agricultural mosaics, and coastlines, often ranging many kilometers from roosts. Colonies are typically on sea cliffs, inland escarpments, or large rock outcrops. Birds frequently exploit updrafts along ridges and coastal winds. They may also appear over towns when swarming insects are abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This swift spends most of its life on the wing, feeding, drinking, and even bathing in flight. It breeds on cliffs and rocky escarpments in Madagascar and the Comoros, returning to the same colony sites year after year. Like many swifts, it often gathers where rising air concentrates flying insects, such as along ridgelines or before storms.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with fast scything passes and short rapid wingbeats; agile aerialist
Social Behavior
Typically forms loose flocks while foraging and nests colonially on cliffs or in crevices. Pairs are likely monogamous and reuse nest sites across seasons. Nest chambers are simple pads of plant fragments and feathers glued with saliva.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Mostly high-pitched screams and sharp, chittering calls delivered in flight. Vocalizations intensify around colony sites and during social chases.
