White-throated Needletail
Hirundapus caudacutus
The White-throated Needletail (Hirundapus caudacutus) is a uncommon swift found in 30 countries, weighing about 96 g. The white-throated needletail, also known as the needle-tailed swift or spine-tailed swift, is a large swift in the genus Hirundapus.
About the White-throated Needletail
The white-throated needletail, also known as the needle-tailed swift or spine-tailed swift, is a large swift in the genus Hirundapus. It is reputed to reach speeds of up to 170 km/h (110 mph) in horizontal flight, but this is unverified because the methods used to measure its speed have not been published. 75 km/h (47 mph) is more likely, but this is still at least 100 times the bird's length per second.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where it lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in Sweden, New Zealand, United Kingdom, United States, Kyrgyzstan, North Korea.
When to see it
Best months: January, February, March, October, November, December, with peak activity in January. It is a winter visitor species across most of its range.
Easily confused with
Quick questions
- What does a White-throated Needletail look like?
- The white-throated needletail, also known as the needle-tailed swift or spine-tailed swift, is a large swift in the genus Hirundapus.
- How big is a White-throated Needletail?
- The White-throated Needletail is a medium sized bird weighing about 96 g.
- Where can you see a White-throated Needletail?
- The White-throated Needletail occurs in 30 countries, including Australia, Taiwan, China, India and Bhutan.
- What birds look similar to a White-throated Needletail?
- The White-throated Needletail is most easily confused with the Brown-backed Needletail, the Silver-backed Needletail and the Purple Needletail.
- Is the White-throated Needletail endangered?
- The White-throated Needletail is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
Learn the White-throated Needletail for real
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