The São Tomé spinetail is a species of swift in the family Apodidae. It is endemic to São Tomé and Príncipe, occurring in both São Tomé and Príncipe Islands. The species was described by Ernst Hartert on 1900.
Region
Gulf of Guinea islands
Typical Environment
Occurs on both São Tomé and Príncipe, where it frequents forest edges, secondary growth, and agroforestry landscapes such as cocoa and coffee plantations. It commonly forages above the canopy, along ridgelines, and over rivers and clearings. The species also ranges over coastal lowlands and into lower montane zones, following swarms of aerial insects. It is regularly seen over settlements and open fields, especially during insect emergences.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This small swift spends most of its life on the wing, catching insects over forests, plantations, and villages. The 'spinetail' name refers to the stiff, spine-tipped tail feathers that help it brace when clinging briefly to vertical surfaces. It often forages in mixed flocks with other swifts and swallows. Breeding biology on the islands is still poorly documented.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with fast, agile, erratic flight; occasional brief glides
Social Behavior
Often forms small to medium aerial flocks, sometimes mixing with other swift and swallow species. Likely nests in small colonies or scattered pairs, using cavities or protected crevices and adhering nest material with saliva as other swifts do. Pairs are presumed to be seasonally monogamous. Roosting is typically on vertical surfaces where it can cling briefly.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high-pitched twittering and sharp chip notes given in flight. Calls intensify when birds are in feeding swarms or interacting over nesting areas.
