Short-tailed Swift
Short-tailed Swift
100
1 day ago
Points:
100
Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
The Short-tailed Swift (*Chaetura brachyura*) is a small swift widespread across Central and South America. It is instantly recognizable by its extremely short tail, giving it a distinctive blunt-ended appearance in flight.
Where to spot
Widespread from southern Mexico through Central America, and across much of tropical South America, including the Amazon basin.
How to spot
Look for very small, dark, fast-flying swifts. Focus on their silhouette: the lack of a prominent tail is the primary identification clue, making them appear like a 'flying potato' or 'cigar'.
When to spot
Year-round in its tropical resident range. Most active during daylight hours, often foraging over forests, rivers, and clearings.
Where to spot
Widespread from southern Mexico through Central America, and across much of tropical South America, including the Amazon basin.
How to spot
Look for very small, dark, fast-flying swifts. Focus on their silhouette: the lack of a prominent tail is the primary identification clue, making them appear like a 'flying potato' or 'cigar'.
When to spot
Year-round in its tropical resident range. Most active during daylight hours, often foraging over forests, rivers, and clearings.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its exceptionally short tail is unique among swifts, making it look almost 'tailless' and easily distinguishable even at a distance when observed well.
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Spotted
- Recently spotted
- 1423 (Seen in the last 3 months)
- Last spotted
- 1 day ago
Monthly observations
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