Image via Macaulay Library
Cape Verde Swift
- Scientific name
- Apus alexandri
- Family
- Apodidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Urban suburban
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Forked
Where it came from
The Cape Verde Swift, scientifically classified as Apus alexandri, is an avian species endemic to the Cape Verde archipelago. It was historically described in the early 20th century, emerging from the colonial-era scientific interest in cataloging the unique biodiversity of Macaronesian islands. Its evolution reflects an adaptation to the rugged, volcanic terrain of the region, where these birds thrive in rocky crevices and cliffsides.
The bird is characterized by its distinctively pointed wings and a noticeably forked tail, physiological traits optimized for high-speed, acrobatic aerial foraging. These features allow the swift to navigate the erratic wind patterns prevalent across the islands. While it remains a subject of great interest to ornithologists studying insular speciation, its design is the product of natural selection rather than human artifice, representing a highly specialized survival strategy within a geographically isolated environment.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Cape Verde Swift
Cape Verde Swift is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Cape Verde Swift on collecto.rs?
Cape Verde Swift doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Cape Verde Swift?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Cape Verde Swift catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Cape Verde Swift is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
