Common Swift

Apus apus

(A. a. apus)

Armenian Name:	Սև մանգաղաթև

See Plate 36 for Common Swift and other similar species

Resident Status:	Breeding bird
Abundance:	Common
Length:	16-17 cm, Wing Span:42-48 cm
Distribution Map:	Map 189.
Description:	Blackish-brown overall with whitish chin and throat, dark belly, and slightly paler flight feathers.
Similar Species:	Differs from Alpine Swift by smaller size, slimmer more pointed wings, and dark belly.
Behavior:	Spends almost all of life in flight; fast, shallow wingbeats with frequent long glides. Flocks fly along cliff faces or sides of tall buildings giving screaming calls.
Habitat:	Sheer cliffs, river gorges, cities.
Food:	Airborne invertebrates.
Nest:	Cup of plant material glued to crevice of cliff or building with saliva.
Eggs:	25 mm, 2-4, white.