Common Swift
Apus apus
Common Swifts are master aerialists, spending most of their lives in flight—eating, sleeping, and even mating on the wing. Recognised by their crescent-shaped wings and piercing screech calls, they seldom land except to nest.
- Habitat: Breeds in buildings, cliffs, or hollow trees; otherwise almost always airborne.
- When to See: Generally May to August, departing by early autumn to winter in Africa.
- Diet / Food: Flying insects—catches them at high speed in mid-air.
- Length: 16–17 cm
- Weight: 35–45 g
- Wingspan: 40 cm