Uccelli simili a Common Swift

Key differences

The Pallid Swift is slightly larger and paler brown overall, with a more extensive and often whiter throat patch that extends further onto the breast. It also has slightly paler underparts and often a faint pale scaling on the belly. Its flight is often described as more languid or 'floppy' than the Common Swift's. The tail fork is typically deeper and more obvious.

Key differences

Significantly larger than the Common Swift, with a distinctive white belly and throat contrasting sharply with dark brown upperparts and a dark breast band. Its flight is powerful and graceful, but its size and plumage pattern make it easily distinguishable.

Key differences

While also an aerial insectivore, the House Martin is a hirundine (swallow family) and has a distinct white rump and underparts, contrasting with dark blue-black upperparts. Its flight is more fluttering and less powerful than a swift's, and it has a shorter, less scythe-like wing shape.