Scientific Name: Hirundapus caudacutus
Malay Name: Lelayang-Besar Utara
Chinese Name: 白喉针尾雨燕
Range:
Found from Siberia to Central and Northeast Asia and winters to the Indian subcontinent, Southern China, Southeast Asia, New Guinea, Australia and New Zealand
Taxonomy:
Polytypic. Subspecies are: caudacutus, nudipes
Local Subspecies: caudacutus
Size: 21-22 cm
Identification: Resembles the other two migratory Needletail species with cigar-shaped body but has the diagnostic clearly defined white throat. Juvenile has less glossy underparts.
Similar looking species: Brown-backed Needletail, Silver-backed Needletail
Habitat: Forested and open areas.
Behaviour/Ecology: Forages aerially and has also been observed to roost in trees.
Local Status: Very rare vagrant
Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN 3.1)
Location: Only one sighting at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve (Summit) in April 2008.
Photos:
External Links:
Conservation Status: IUCN Red List Page
Photos: Oriental Bird Images
Sound Recordings: xeno-canto Link
Wikipedia Entry: Wikipedia Link
Reference:
Craig Robson (2011) A Field Guide to the Birds of South-East Asia
