Little Swift

Afrikaans name: Kleinwindswael

Little Swift

Photo © Steven Herbert

Apus affinis

The Little Swift is very common in South Africa and may be seen virtually anywhere. During summer large flocks can be seen near suitable breeding sites.

Little Swifts, like most swifts, are on the wing virtually all year round. Only when they are breeding will they take a break. They mainly feed on insects which are caught in flight.

The Little Swift has a square tail and a large patch of white on their rumps.

They nest in colonies on cliffs and on man-made structures such as bridges, culverts or under roofs. The nest is made of grass and feathers which are stuck together with saliva. Up to 3 eggs are laid and both parents care for them.

They often build their nests under man-made structures such as roofs and bridges

Photo © Steven Herbert

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References and further reading

A First Guide to South African Birds - 7th Edition - Author: Leonard Gill - Year Published: 1975 - Page: 87

Birds of the Natal Drakensberg Park - Author: Robin Little and William Bainbridge - Year Published: 1992 - Page: 52

Birds of the South Western Cape - Author: Joy Frandsen - Year Published: - Page: 129

Collins Illustrated Checklist - Birds of Southern Africa - 1st edition - Author: Ber van Perlo - Year Published: 1999 - Page: 43

Field Guide to the Birds of Kruger National Park - Author: Ian Sinclair and Ian Whyte - Year Published: 1991 - Page: 116

Geoff Lockwood's Garden Birds of Southern Africa - Author: Geoff Lockwood - Year Published: - Page: 113

Roberts' Birds of Southern Africa - 5th Edition - Author: Gordon Lindsay Maclean - Year Published: 1985 - Page: 364

Roberts' Birds of Southern Africa - 6th Edition - Author: Gordon Lindsay Maclean - Year Published: 1993 - Page: 360

Sasol Birds of Southern Africa - 4th Edition - Author: Ian Sinclair et al. - Year Published: 2011 - Page: 252

List of South African Birds