Common Swift look-alikes

Key differences

Slightly larger and paler brown overall, with a more extensive and whiter throat patch that often extends onto the breast. Its flight is often described as more languid or 'floppy' than the Common Swift. Found primarily in southern Europe and North Africa.

Key differences

Much larger than the Common Swift (wingspan up to 58 cm) with a distinctive white belly and throat, contrasting with dark brown upperparts and breast band. Its flight is powerful and graceful, often at higher altitudes. Tail is less deeply forked.

Key differences

Swallows have a much longer, deeply forked tail, often with streamers, and are iridescent blue-black above with rufous underparts and throat. They perch frequently on wires and buildings, and their flight is more undulating. Swifts are entirely dark and rarely perch.

Key differences

Martins are smaller than swifts, with a distinctive white rump and pure white underparts, contrasting with blue-black upperparts. They have a shorter, less deeply forked tail. They also perch frequently and build mud nests under eaves.