Pale-rumped Swift (Chaetura egregia)

Identification & Behavior: ~13 cm (5.1 in). The Pale-rumped Swift has dusky back with a whitish rump and uppertail coverts that contrast with the dusky back and tail.  The underparts are gray with a paler throat that can often be difficult to notice.  It is similar to a Gray-rumped Swift but is distinguished by larger size, a more “normal” flapping of the wings during flight, and the back pattern that shows a pale rump bordered by a dusky back and a dusky tail. Also, see Amazonian Swift and Chimney Swift.

Status: The Pale-rumped Swift is rare and widespread in Amazonia where it seems to favor continuous forest away from large rivers. It has been recorded at elevations of up to 1100 m along the foothill of the Andes. The Pale-rumped Swift also occurs in Ec, Br, and Bo.

Name in Spanish: Vencejo de Lomo Pálido.

Sub-species: Pale-rumped Swift (Chaetura egregia), Todd, 1916.

Meaning of Name: Chaetura: Gr. Khaitē= long flowing hair and oura= tail. egregia: L. egregious= admirable, extraordinary, excellent.

See more of the Family Apodidae