Image via Macaulay Library
Sabine's Spinetail
- Scientific name
- Rhaphidura sabini
- Family
- Apodidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Shrubland
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Notched
Where it came from
Sabine's Spinetail, scientifically identified as Rhaphidura sabini, is a species of swift native to the tropical rainforests of western and central Africa. The bird was first described by the British zoologist and diplomat Edward Sabine in the early 19th century, honoring his contributions to the study of regional avian biodiversity during an era of expanding European exploration in the African continent.
The species is distinguished by its evolutionary adaptation to dense jungle habitats, featuring notably pointed wings and a distinctively notched tail that allow for high-speed, agile flight through canopy gaps. Ornithologists emphasize these morphological traits as essential survival mechanisms, as the bird is primarily insectivorous and spends the majority of its active life cycle in continuous aerial pursuit of prey.
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 Sabine's Spinetail
Sabine's Spinetail 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 Sabine's Spinetail on collecto.rs?
Sabine's Spinetail 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 Sabine's Spinetail?
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 Sabine's Spinetail catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Sabine's Spinetail 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
