The Plain Swift is a medium-sized swift endemic to the Canary Islands and Madeira. It is a dark-plumaged bird, perfectly adapted to the aerial pursuit of insects over the islands' diverse landscapes, from coastlines to mountains.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Canary Islands and Madeira in the Macaronesian region of the Atlantic Ocean. Common over towns, cliffs, and ravines.
How to spot
Look for its uniform dark brown plumage, which lacks the pale throat patch or distinct paler areas seen in some other swifts. Its flight is typically rapid and powerful, often seen in small groups soaring or chasing insects.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round in its range, though breeding activity peaks in spring and summer. Most active during the day.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Canary Islands and Madeira in the Macaronesian region of the Atlantic Ocean. Common over towns, cliffs, and ravines.
How to spot
Look for its uniform dark brown plumage, which lacks the pale throat patch or distinct paler areas seen in some other swifts. Its flight is typically rapid and powerful, often seen in small groups soaring or chasing insects.
When to spot
Can be observed year-round in its range, though breeding activity peaks in spring and summer. Most active during the day.
Unlike many swifts that are migratory, the Plain Swift is largely sedentary within its island range, though some local movements may occur.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.