Grey-rumped Swift vs Vaux's Swift

In short

Grey-rumped Swift and Vaux's Swift are both small, dark swifts with subtle differences. The Grey-rumped Swift is distinguished by its large grey rump patch and pale throat, while Vaux's Swift lacks these features. Both species are often seen in flight over forested areas.

Identification tips

• Look for the grey rump patch on Grey-rumped Swift.
• Check for a pale throat on Grey-rumped Swift.
• Note the uniformly dark plumage of Vaux's Swift.
• Observe nesting behavior: Grey-rumped Swift may use chimneys.
• Listen for Vaux's Swift's high-pitched twittering call.

Size

Both species are similar in size, typical of small swifts.

Plumage

Grey-rumped Swift has a distinct grey rump patch and a pale throat, contrasting with its otherwise blackish plumage. Vaux's Swift is uniformly dark without a contrasting rump patch.

Behaviour

Both species are aerial insectivores often seen in flight. Grey-rumped Swift may be observed nesting in chimneys or similar structures.

Habitat

Grey-rumped Swift typically occurs in lowland and foothill forests, while Vaux's Swift is also found in forested areas but has a wider range, including urban areas where it may use chimneys for nesting.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for Grey-rumped Swift. Vaux's Swift has a high-pitched, twittering call.