From Opus

Alternative name: Tahitian Swiftlet

Aerodramus leucophaeus

artwork by noisi

[edit] Identification

With 10 cm a small Swiftlet.

• Dark brown upperparts with grey rump
• Grey-brown underparts
• Long, forked tail.

Less contrast between under and upperparts then Atiu Swiftlet. Marquesan Swiftlet somehow intermediate between this species and Atiu Swiftlet and with a longer tail.

[edit] Distribution

Endemic to Tahiti and Moorea in French Polynesia.
Population has declined because of predation by introduced Common Myna.

[edit] Taxonomy

Like other Aerodramus Swiftles this species is often placed in Collocalia.
Some authors treat this species as conspecific with Atiu Swiftlet and Marquesan Swiftlet or as forming a superspecies with them. Some authors are merging this bird and Marquesan Swiftlet to Polynesian Swiftlet Aerodramus leucopaheus.
Monotypic.

[edit] Habitat

Wet, rocky and forested valleys at high elevations.

[edit] Behaviour

Feeds on insects, taken in flight. Usually seen feeding at high elevations.
It nests either in shallow depressions under overhanging rocks and coastal cliffs or caves. The nest is of vegetable matters hold together with saliva. Uncertain if species is capable of echolocation. Lays two eggs.
Resident. Records on Moorea may only be vagrants, as no indication of breeding.

[edit] External Links