ebirdAlpine swift (Tachymarptis melba) – This beautiful acrobat with a pure white belly lights up the sky above the ornithological garden of the Au Bois Vert hotel-restaurant, just steps from Antananarivo.
What does it look like?
This large swift is recognized by its wide wingspan (51–58 cm), dark brown back and tail, and sharply contrasting white belly. A light brown collar nicely frames its white throat, giving it a graceful silhouette in flight.
Its song or cry
In full flight, it emits sharp, piercing calls, often made in duet with another swift. These shrill vocalizations echo above the lodge and restaurant, capturing the attention of visitors in the ornithological garden.
An anecdote or fun fact
The Alpine swift holds an astonishing record: it can fly without landing for up to 200 consecutive days, even while sleeping!
Where and when to see it in our garden?
It is mostly seen in the late afternoon, flying over the entire Au Bois Vert ornithological garden, especially near the lodge and the entrance on the international airport side. It frequents our area from April to September.
Why does he love our garden?
The wide open areas, the abundance of insects around the restaurant, and the presence of vertical spaces suitable for resting make it a true paradise for this swift in our garden.
Tips for observing it
In the late afternoon, keep your binoculars handy and watch the sky near the lodge, especially at sunset. The swift, very sensitive to its surroundings, enjoys the calm around the restaurant and peacefully flies over the ornithological garden. Avoid sudden movements so as not to disturb it.
