Bates's swift facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bates's swift |
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The Bates's swift (also known as Apus batesi) is a small bird. It's a type of swift, part of the Apodidae family. You can find this bird in western Africa.
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What Does the Bates's Swift Look Like?
The Bates's swift is a small, thin bird. It has a tail that splits deeply, like a fork. This tail often looks pointed when the bird holds it closed. Its feathers are shiny black. It also has a light patch on its throat, but it's hard to see.
These swifts are usually quiet. But near their nests, they make a high-pitched, vibrating sound. They grow to be about 14 centimeters long.
Where Do Bates's Swifts Live?
You can find Bates's swifts in parts of western Africa. They live in countries like Liberia and Guinea. You can also find them further east in Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon. They also live south in Gabon and the northern Congo.
It's not fully confirmed if they live in Sierra Leone. There are also some reports from the eastern democratic Republic of Congo.
What Kind of Home Do Bates's Swifts Prefer?
Bates's swifts are birds that live in rainforests. They like areas that are close to cliffs and rocky places.
How Do Bates's Swifts Behave?
Bates's swifts fly above the top of the rainforest trees. They have a fluttering flight, with quick wing beats. Sometimes, they glide for short periods. You might see them flying alone or in small groups. They also fly with other types of swifts and birds called hirundines.
They build their nests alone. They often use old nests made by other birds like hirundines or other swifts. They mainly use nests from the forest swallow. They might also use nests from the mottled spinetail and lesser striped swallow.
Bates's swifts have been seen breeding from September to March in Gabon. In Cameroon, they have been noted laying eggs in May and June.
Who Named the Bates's Swift?
The Bates's swift is named after George Latimer Bates. He was an American naturalist who lived from 1863 to 1940. He traveled a lot in West Africa to study nature. The scientific name, Apus batesi, also honors him.
