African black swift

Introduction: African black swifts (Apus barbatus) inhabit mainly mountainous country when breeding. They can be observed in a wide range of other habitats but favour open areas.

Distribution: Extreme eastern Caprivi and on the cliffs of Victoria Falls.

Diet: Flies, ants, bees and beetles are caught in flight.

Description: Barbatus is the Latin word for bearded.

Breeding: Little is known of their breeding habits. Nests are a thin, but strong, shallow pad made of feathers and grass, stuck together by saliva. Usually 2 eggs are laid between September and February.

Size: 19cm.

Weight: 42g.