The volcano swiftlet is a species of bird in the Apodidae family, formerly considered conspecific with the Himalayan swiftlet .The volcano swiftlet is commonly measured at 13–14 centimetres (5.1–5.5 in) long and characterized as dark gray with an unmissable brown rump band, whereas younger individuals show a less defined band. They can be easily heard because of the unique "Teeree teereeeee teeereeeee" clicking sound they make. Nothing is known about the diet of this bird. Many species of Aerodramus swiftlets nest colonially in caves, which leads them to use echolocation to navigate through the dark environments like caves and crevices, as well as during the twilight hours. While the swiftlet can echolocate like the very known species of the bat, they are much less educated and less refined in using it for capturing prey. This echolocation capability distinguishes Aerodramus from closely related genera like Hydrochous and most species within Collocalia.
Region
Sunda Arc (Java and Sumatra)
Typical Environment
Found on the slopes of volcanoes and adjacent montane landscapes, especially around cave systems, lava tubes, and rocky crevices. It forages over forested ridgelines, clearings, and crater rims, often high above ground. Nesting colonies are typically inside dark caves or deep fissures, where the species employs echolocation. It can also be seen flying over montane valleys and along steep ravines where aerial insects concentrate.
Altitude Range
1000–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The volcano swiftlet is a high-elevation cave-nesting swiftlet of Indonesia that uses simple echolocation clicks to navigate in dark roosts. It was formerly treated as part of the Himalayan swiftlet complex but is now recognized as distinct. Colonies often occur on or near active volcanoes, where it builds nests of plant fibers bound with saliva on cave walls and crevices.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, scything flight with rapid wingbeats; agile aerialist
Social Behavior
Typically nests in colonies within caves or deep crevices, adhering cup-shaped nests to vertical rock. Pairs are likely monogamous within a breeding season and share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Uses simple clicking echolocation inside dark roosts and during twilight near cave entrances.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
In flight it gives high-pitched, thin twittering notes. Inside caves it produces series of dry clicks used for echolocation, often rendered as rapid 'tee-ree' sequences.
