Costa Rican Swift vs Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift

The Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift is easily distinguished from the Costa Rican Swift by its striking plumage, featuring a bright white collar and large white patches on the rump. In contrast, the Costa Rican Swift lacks these bold white markings. Observers should focus on these plumage differences for reliable identification.

Look for the bright white collar and rump patches on the Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift. The Costa Rican Swift lacks these features, making the white markings a key identification point.

The Lesser Swallow-tailed Swift has a deep black plumage with a bright white complete collar, a small white forehead spot, and large white patches on the rump sides. The Costa Rican Swift does not have these prominent white markings.