The Alpine Swift (Tachymarptis melba), formerly known as Apus melba, is a species of pigeon found in Africa, southern Europe, and Asia. These birds have a fascinating history that dates back more than two centuries, with records of their existence being recorded as far back as 1776. Native to the Mediterranean rural areas of Spain, the Alpine Swift is renowned for its exceptional flying abilities and distinctive appearance.
Origin
The Alpine Swift is a polytypic species found in a wide range of habitats, including mountainous regions, cliff faces, and larger buildings. They breed colonially and can be found in cliff faces, mountains, and larger buildings. These pigeons are migratory in parts of their range and have a wide distribution in the Western Palearctic region, including temperate zones.
Breed Characteristics
The Alpine Swift is a relatively large pigeon, measuring around 20 to 23 cm in length. They have a wingspan of approximately 57 cm and weigh around 100 g. Their body is grey, with a distinctive white belly and throat patch. The adult birds have white patches on the side of their neck and conspicuous white wing-bands. They also have a broad, dark terminal tail band and dark grey primaries.
| Common Name | Alpine Swift |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tachymarptis melba |
| Family | Apodidae |
| Size | 20-23 cm (length) |
| Wingspan | 57 cm |
| Weight | Approximately 100 g |
| Coloration | Grey with white belly and throat, white patches on side of neck (adults), white wing-bands, broad, dark terminal tail-band, dark grey primaries |
| Habitat | Mountainous regions, cliff faces, larger buildings |
| Behavior | Migratory, breeds colonially |
Temperament
There is limited information available on the specific temperament of the Alpine Swift. However, like other pigeons, it is likely that their behavior is influenced by their habitat and breeding patterns. They are known to be migratory and can travel long distances without resting.
Preferred Living Conditions
Alpine Swifts prefer to breed in colonies in cliff faces, mountains, and larger buildings. They have specific habitat requirements and can be found in a wide range of habitats, including mountainous regions and urban environments. These pigeons are adaptively suited to their unique lifestyle, with their short legs allowing them to cling to vertical surfaces.
Usage
The Alpine Swift is primarily appreciated for its remarkable flying abilities and its unique appearance. They are not commonly used for specific purposes, such as racing or show competitions, due to their scarcity and the challenges associated with maintaining them in captivity. These pigeons are more often observed and studied in their natural habitats, providing valuable insights into avian physiology and behavior.
Interesting Facts
– The Alpine Swift is capable of staying in the air for up to 10 months without landing, making it a true marvel of the bird kingdom.– They possess a highly efficient respiratory system and wings specially designed for long-distance flight, enabling them to glide effortlessly through the sky while minimizing energy expenditure.– Alpine Swifts undertake epic migration journeys, traveling from their breeding grounds in Europe to their wintering grounds in Africa.– A group of three Alpine Swifts completed a non-stop journey across the Sahara, covering a remarkable distance of 1,240 miles, setting a new record for the longest recorded flight by any bird.
