The Malagasy palm swift is a small swift in the family Apodidae. It is very similar to the African palm swift, Cypsiurus parvus, with which it was formerly considered conspecific. It was split based on differences in vocalizations and plumage coloration.
Region
Madagascar and Comoros (including Mayotte)
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across Madagascar and nearby Comoro islands, especially where palms are abundant. It frequents coastal plains, open woodlands, agricultural areas, and towns with ornamental or coconut palms. Nests are attached to the undersides of palm fronds in gardens, plantations, and natural palm stands. Often forages over water bodies and open landscapes and is common in lowland tropical settings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small swift was formerly lumped with the African palm swift but is now treated as distinct based on vocal and subtle plumage differences. It specializes in nesting under palm fronds, gluing its tiny nest—and even its eggs—to the leaf with saliva. It thrives around human settlements where coconut and other palms are planted.
Temperament
highly aerial and social
Flight Pattern
rapid, scything wingbeats with swift glides
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups or loose flocks, foraging high over open country. Typically nests under palm fronds, where pairs glue a shallow nest and secure eggs with saliva; small colonies may form in suitable palm stands. Likely monogamous and will reuse favored nesting palms across seasons.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high, twittering calls and rapid trills while in flight. Vocalizations are persistent around nesting sites and during aerial chases.
