Chimney Swift Identification

APPEARANCE

Chimney Swifts can be readily identified be their unique body shape, reminiscent of a “cigar on wings.” They can also be identified by several field marks:    

  • Cylindrical body
  • Uniform charcoal brown colour
  • Pale white throat
  • Long slender wings
  • Short, bristly tail

Males and females are not distinguishable by plumage.

SOUNDS

Chimney Swifts make a constant, high-pitched twittering sound. The video below shows Swifts in the process of roosting; roosts may contain hundreds or thousands of birds. Skip to 0:55 to see an interior view of the chimney.