Image via Macaulay Library
Moustached Treeswift
- Scientific name
- Hemiprocne mystacea
- Family
- Hemiprocnidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Forked
Where it came from
The Moustached Treeswift (Hemiprocne mystacea) is a distinctive member of the Hemiprocnidae family, widely distributed across the tropical lowlands of New Guinea and the surrounding Bismarck and Solomon archipelagos. First described by the French naturalist René Lesson in 1827, this species evolved to occupy a specific ecological niche in forest edges and clearings. Its nomenclature, referencing the prominent white malar stripe that gives the appearance of a moustache, highlights the specific plumage markers that distinguish it from its closest avian relatives in the region.
The design of this bird is defined by evolutionary specialization rather than human artifice, characterized by long, pointed wings optimized for rapid, acrobatic aerial foraging and a deeply forked tail that aids in high-speed maneuvering. Ornithologists often highlight the species' unique behavioral adaptations, such as its habit of perching openly on exposed branches, which contrasts with the more secretive habits of many other swifts. It remains a subject of ongoing study for researchers tracking the biodiversity of the Papuan region, valued for its complex vocalizations and striking structural appearance.
Generated by Pi, the collecto.rs collecting companion
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Moustached Treeswift
Moustached Treeswift 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 Moustached Treeswift on collecto.rs?
Moustached Treeswift 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 Moustached Treeswift?
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 Moustached Treeswift catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Moustached Treeswift 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
