The white-naped swift is the largest representative of the swift family in the New World and one of the two largest species in the world. Only the purple needletail of Asia may be slightly larger. This bird is found principally in western and central Mexico, with one record on the Guatemalan border.
Region
Western and central Mexico
Typical Environment
Found primarily along montane escarpments, volcanic slopes, and deep canyons from western into central Mexico, with rare records to the Guatemala border. It favors rugged landscapes that provide sheer cliffs and cave systems for roosting and nesting. Birds forage widely over forested ridges and open valleys, often covering long distances in search of aerial insect swarms. Local movements may occur in response to weather and prey availability, but populations are largely resident.
Altitude Range
800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-naped swift is among the largest swifts in the world, rivaled mainly by Asia’s purple needletail. It spends nearly all of its life on the wing, drinking, feeding, and even bathing in flight. Colonies often roost and nest on sheer cliffs or in caves, where birds wheel in dramatic, fast-flying flocks.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
powerful flier with rapid wingbeats and long arcing glides
Social Behavior
Often seen in tight, noisy flocks circling cliffs and canyon walls. Nests colonially on ledges or in caves, where both parents share incubation and chick rearing. Pairs likely maintain strong seasonal bonds and return to traditional roosting sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Primarily gives sharp, piercing screams and chittering calls while in flight. Vocalizations intensify around roosts and nest sites, creating a loud chorus that carries across canyons.
