Vaux's swift is a small swift native to North America, Central America, and northern South America. It was named for the American scientist William Sansom Vaux.
Region
Western North America to Central America and northern South America
Typical Environment
Breeds from southeastern Alaska and British Columbia through the Pacific Northwest into the western United States and parts of Mexico. Winters mainly in Mexico and Central America, reaching northern South America, including Colombia and Venezuela. In the tropics it occurs in foothill and montane forests and can be locally resident. It favors mature forests with large hollow snags, but also uses urban chimneys where natural roosts are scarce. During migration it can be seen over a wide range of open and forested habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Vaux's swift is a small, fast-flying swift that spends nearly all of its time on the wing, catching tiny insects in midair. It often roosts communally in large hollow trees or old chimneys, creating spectacular evening swirls as flocks enter. The species was named for the American naturalist William Sansom Vaux. Northern populations migrate long distances, while some tropical populations are resident.
Vaux's swifts at Chapman Elementary in Portland
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, agile turns and brief glides
Social Behavior
Highly gregarious, often forming large flocks, especially at communal roosts in hollow trees or chimneys. Nests are small twig platforms glued to vertical interior surfaces with saliva. Typically monogamous during the breeding season and may nest in loose colonies. Roost departure and return can involve dramatic swirling flocks.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Voice consists of high-pitched, dry chips and rapid twittering trills given in flight. At roosts, flocks produce continuous chattering. Calls are thin and piercing, carrying well over open spaces.
Plumage
Uniformly sooty to grayish-brown with a slightly paler rump and pale throat; short, square-tipped tail and long, narrow wings.
Diet
Feeds almost exclusively on aerial insects such as flies, beetles, ants, wasps, and small true bugs. Forages on the wing, often at mid to high elevations above the ground and canopy. Will concentrate over rivers, forest edges, and areas with insect swarms. Often feeds in mixed flocks with other swifts and swallows.
Preferred Environment
Open airspace above forests, clearings, riparian corridors, and urban areas. Frequently follows ridgelines and thermals during foraging and migration. Uses airspace near roosts and nest sites for intensive feeding bouts.
