How to Identify a Chimney swift: Not a Barn Swallow

Animal identifier ยท Birds

Chimney swift identification photo
Photo: Georg_Wietschorke / Pixabay

Chaetura pelagica

Eastern towns in summer. A dark cigar with stiff wingbeats.

What does a chimney swift look like?

A dark cigar with stiff wingbeats.

What sign does it leave?

chimney swift tracks
Track diagram for identification. Compare it with the print in front of you.

No track you can use.

Droppings

chimney swift droppings
Dropping diagram. Do not handle droppings.

Not on the ground. Do not handle droppings.

Where you find it

Eastern towns in summer.

This page is a field guide, not a permit to approach wildlife. If a bird is injured, call a local wildlife rehabilitator.

Often confused with a barn swallow. All animal identification pages.