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Aves - Neognathae - Apodiformes - Apodidae - Streptoprocne - Streptoprocne zonaris

Sternum (Breast Bone) of a Streptoprocne zonaris (White-collared Swift)


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Species Description
The White-Collared Swift is a large, non-migratory swift, recognizable with its black plumage and distinctive white collar, found in central Mexico and the Caribbean south to Peru and northern Argentina; it makes use of a wide range of habitats, save for the more arid zones. It is a highly aerial bird, with a fast, mostly gliding flight; its feet are useless for walking or horizontal perching, but are excellent for vertical perches. The White-Collared Swift eats flying insects that are caught on the wing, and it will travel long distances to feed. It is a highly gregarious species, nesting in large groups along the ledges of caves (the entrance to which is often hidden behind a waterfall; a group of swifts is known as a “box”, “screaming frenzy” or “swoop”.
Skeletal Elements Available

Sternum (Breast Bone)
External Links
Animal Diversity Web
Encyclopedia of Life
Wikipedia White-collared Swift Page

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