Image via Macaulay Library
Square-tailed Sawwing
- Scientific name
- Psalidoprocne nitens
- Family
- Hirundinidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Pointed
- Tail shape
- Square
Where it came from
The Square-tailed Sawwing, Psalidoprocne nitens, is a member of the Hirundinidae family, native to the tropical rainforests of Central and West Africa. Ornithological documentation of this species typically identifies it as a specialized, small swallow that occupies clearings and forest edges. Its evolution is characterized by adaptations for aerial insectivory within dense canopy environments, where its distinct square-shaped tail aids in maneuverability during low-level foraging flights.
The species was formally described and classified as part of the broader study of African psalidoprocne swallows. Its designation as 'nitens'—Latin for shining or glistening—reflects the glossy, dark plumage observed in adult specimens. Like other members of its genus, it earned its common name from the serrated leading edges of its outer primary feathers, an anatomical feature that distinguishes the group in biological taxonomies and has been a subject of interest in avian structural studies for decades.
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 Square-tailed Sawwing
Square-tailed Sawwing 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 Square-tailed Sawwing on collecto.rs?
Square-tailed Sawwing 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 Square-tailed Sawwing?
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 Square-tailed Sawwing catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Square-tailed Sawwing 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
