White-throated Needletail

Hirundapus caudacutus

Family: Swifts · Status: Uncommon migrant · Size: 21–22 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Subspecies caudacutus breeds from central Siberia east to northeast Asia, wintering in New Guinea and eastern Australia. Subspecies nudipes breeds in the Himalayas; its wintering range is incompletely known but likely extends to Southeast Asia.

Identification

Large swift with a squarish tail, dark grey cigar-shaped body, and white throat patch. Subspecies caudacutus has white lores while subspecies nudipes has dark lores.

Habitat

Usually seen passing through forested and open areas on migration in Singapore.

Behaviour

Forages aerially and has been documented roosting in trees. Often seen in association with other needletail species.