The Neotropical Palm Swift, scientifically known as Tachornis squamata, is a small bird that is native to South America. It is part of the Apodidae family, also known as the swifts and seen mainly in the tropics. It is primarily found in the rainforests, savannahs, and palm groves of South America, including Venezuela, Colombia, Brazil, and Peru.
The Neotropical Palm Swift is a small bird, measuring around 10 centimeters in length with elongated wings that are 4.5 to 5.5 centimeters long. It has a dark brown body with a white belly and a distinct white patch on its throat. It also has a short, slightly curved black bill and large dark eyes.
As its name suggests, the Neotropical Palm Swift mainly nests and roosts in palm trees. It is one of the few bird species that have evolved, losing its ability to perch or "sit." The bird spends most of its life in the air and obtains food while in flight, typically feeding on insects such as termites, ants, and flies.
The Neotropical Palm Swift is known for its unique flying pattern, reminiscent of a bat. It is a quick and agile bird and can reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. The bird's ability to fly for extended periods without resting helps it to fly over large areas of rainforests and locate the insects that it feeds on.
During the breeding season, the Neotropical Palm Swift forms large colonies that can contain hundreds of birds. The male and female birds build their nests together entirely out of their own saliva, creating a small cup-shaped nest in the palm fronds. The female bird then lays a single egg, which both the male and female birds take turns incubating.
Overall, the Neotropical Palm Swift is an intriguing bird species that has adapted to life in tropical regions remarkably. Its unique ability to remain in the air for extended periods and its reliance on palm trees for nesting, make it an essential part of its ecosystem. However, like many bird species, it faces habitat loss and other threats, making it crucial to work towards their conservation.