Cape Verde swift facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cape Verde swift |
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The Cape Verde swift (also called Alexander's swift) is a small bird that belongs to the swift family. You can only find this special bird on the Cape Verde Islands, which are off the coast of West Africa. It has been seen on almost all the islands. However, it likely makes its nests and raises its young only on islands like Santiago, Fogo, Brava, Santo Antão, and São Nicolau.
This swift is quite common, and its population seems to be stable. This means it is not considered a threatened animal right now. The name "Alexander's swift" honors Boyd Alexander. He was an English ornithologist (a scientist who studies birds) who explored the islands in 1897.
What Does the Cape Verde Swift Look Like?
The Cape Verde swift is about 13 cm (5 inches) long. Its wings can stretch out to about 34 to 35 cm (13 to 14 inches) wide. Its plumage (feathers) are a dark grey-brown color. It has a noticeable pale patch on its throat.
Compared to other swifts found on the islands, the Cape Verde swift is smaller. It also has shorter wings. Its tail has a shallower fork, meaning the V-shape at the end of its tail is not as deep. When it flies, its movements are not as strong. Instead, its flight looks weaker and more fluttering. This bird also makes a high-pitched, screaming sound. It has a buzzing quality to it.
Where Do Cape Verde Swifts Live and What Do They Eat?
The Cape Verde swift eats insects. It catches them while flying through the air. You can often see these birds flying over many different places. They hunt for insects over gullies, along cliffs, and near shorelines. They often hunt in groups.
These birds build their nests in hidden spots. They might choose a crack in a cliff or inside a cave. Sometimes, they even build nests on the roof of a building. The nest itself is shaped like a saucer. It is made from grass and feathers. The female swift lays white eggs. Usually, a clutch size (the number of eggs laid at one time) of two eggs has been reported. Scientists believe these birds stay in the Cape Verde Islands all year round. They do not migrate to other places.
Is the Cape Verde Swift in Danger?
The Cape Verde swift lives in a specific area. However, it is a common bird throughout the islands. There are many of them, especially on Fogo and Brava. There is no sign that their numbers are going down. Also, no major threats have been found that would harm them. Because of this, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has looked at its situation. They have decided that its conservation status is "least concern". This means it is not currently at risk of disappearing.
