Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Common Swift
Scientific name: Apus apus
IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: APODIDAE
Group: Birds
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 10 m
Breeding season / Courtship: N/A
Gestation: N/A
Births: N/A
Habitat:
Cities, cliffs, forests
Description:
The Common Swift, Apus apus, is a migratory bird known for spending most of its life in flight. With a wingspan of 40 to 44 cm, it is easily recognizable by its crescent-shaped silhouette and dark plumage. Common Swifts are masters of the sky, capable of traveling thousands of kilometers without landing. They feed on insects caught in flight. Their high-pitched call is often heard before they are seen. These birds nest in crevices of buildings or cliffs, and their annual return is a herald of summer.
Recommended lens:
>=400mm
Photography tips:
To photograph the Common Swift, it's essential to anticipate its rapid and unpredictable movements. Use a telephoto lens of 400mm or more to capture precise details. Opt for a high shutter speed to freeze its swift flight. Choose a clear background to highlight its silhouette in flight. Twilight moments often offer soft light that can enhance your shots. Be patient and ready to react quickly to capture the perfect moment.
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