Fork-tailed Swift
Apus pacificus
The Pacific Swift, also known as the Fork-tailed Swift, is a rare migrant to Britain, typically seen during the summer months, particularly in the southern and western regions. It is most often spotted in coastal areas, particularly around cliffs and headlands.
Field Identification Guide
Use these features to identify Fork-tailed Swift in the field.
The Pacific Swift can be identified by its distinctive forked tail, dark brown upperparts, and pale underside with a greyish-brown breast band. Its slender wings and rapid, agile flight are also notable features.
The Pacific Swift is slightly smaller than a House Martin, with a length of around 17-18 cm.
The male Pacific Swift has a dark brown back and wings, with a pale greyish-brown breast and belly, and a distinctive white throat patch.
The female Pacific Swift is similar to the male, with no significant differences in plumage.
The Pacific Swift has a high-pitched, screaming call, often described as a sharp "zee-zee-zee" or "sreee-sreee-sreee".
Pacific Swifts are aerial feeders, catching insects in mid-air with their long, curved wings, and are often seen flying rapidly and erratically in pursuit of prey.
The Pacific Swift can be confused with other swift species, such as the Common Swift or the Pallid Swift, but can be distinguished by its forked tail and pale underside with a greyish-brown breast band.
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