Nyanza swift

The Nyanza swift is a species of swift in the family Apodidae. It is found in Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

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Distribution

Region

East Africa

Typical Environment

Occurs from Eritrea and Ethiopia south through South Sudan, Somalia, Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Favors escarpments, rocky gorges, and highland valleys, but also forages over savanna, farmland, and towns. Roosts and nests on sheer cliff faces and sometimes on large human structures. Frequently seen in mixed flocks with other swifts and swallows over lakes and rivers where insects are abundant.

Altitude Range

600–3000 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size15–17 cm

Wing Span38–42 cm

Male Weight0.032 kg

Female Weight0.032 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A fast, scythe-winged aerial insect hunter, the Nyanza swift spends most of its life on the wing, feeding, drinking, and even bathing in flight. It often nests on cliffs and occasionally on tall buildings, forming loose colonies. It can be tricky to distinguish from other dark swifts, but its structure, calls, and subtle throat paleness help. Local movements often track rainfall and insect swarms.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

fast, agile flier with rapid wingbeats and long glides

Social Behavior

Often forms loose flocks, frequently mixing with other swift species above open areas. Nests colonially on cliffs and occasionally large buildings, adhering nests in crevices or ledges. Pairs are monogamous within a breeding season and both sexes share incubation and chick rearing.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Emits sharp, high-pitched screams and twittering calls typical of swifts. Vocalizations intensify around nesting sites and when flocking in fast aerial chases.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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