The Bare-legged Swiftlet is a dark, medium-sized swiftlet found in parts of Southeast Asia. As its name suggests, it possesses unfeathered tarsi (lower legs), a subtle but defining characteristic among swiftlets.
Where to spot
Found in Borneo and parts of Sumatra. They inhabit lowland to montane forests, often near limestone caves and karsts, where they roost and nest.
How to spot
Due to the difficulty in seeing their legs, identification relies on their range and typical swiftlet flight patterns. Look for them in flocks over forested areas or near prominent cave systems. Echolocation calls can also aid in identification.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, particularly noticeable at dawn and dusk when large numbers may enter or exit their cave roosts. Present year-round.
Where to spot
Found in Borneo and parts of Sumatra. They inhabit lowland to montane forests, often near limestone caves and karsts, where they roost and nest.
How to spot
Due to the difficulty in seeing their legs, identification relies on their range and typical swiftlet flight patterns. Look for them in flocks over forested areas or near prominent cave systems. Echolocation calls can also aid in identification.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, particularly noticeable at dawn and dusk when large numbers may enter or exit their cave roosts. Present year-round.
While most swiftlets have feathered legs down to their toes, the Bare-legged Swiftlet is unique for its entirely naked tarsi, though this feature is nearly impossible to observe in the field.
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