From Opus

Alternative names: Guam Cave Swiftlet, Mariana Swiftlet, Micronesian Swiftlet (not to confuse with Aerodramus inquietus!)

Aerodramus bartschi

[edit] Identification

With 11cm a rather small Swiftlet and the only Swiftlet in its range.

• Warm brown upperparts with uniform rump
• Darger grey underparts
• Silver-grey throat
• Slightly forked tail
• Tarsi unfeathered or just lightly feathered

[edit] Distribution

Found in the South Pacific on the S Mariana Islands (Saipan, Guam and Tinian). Introduced to O'ahu (Hawaii).
Formerly common but populations have decreased in recent years. Very small population on O'ahu.

[edit] Taxonomy

Like other Aerodramus Swiftles this species is often placed in Collocalia.
Formerly considered conspecific with Mossy-nest Swiftlet, Palau Swiftlet, Uniform Swiftlet and Caroline Swiftlet. The five species form now a superspecies.
Monotypic.

[edit] Habitat

Over different habitat, forested, cleared and on coast.

[edit] Behaviour

Breeding noted from March to May. Nests in colonies in caves, presumed to be capable of echolocation. Cylindrical nest made with moss and hold together with lots of hardened saliva. Known to make nomadic movements and beeing absent on certain times on some islands, gathering on others.

[edit] External Links