What Is a Group of Swifts Called?

Flock is the general term used for a group of swifts. Drift is the more evocative alternate, capturing the loose, effortless way groups of swifts wheel and glide together high above rooftops on summer evenings, often called a “screaming party” informally for their high-pitched calls.

Where Did the Name Come From?

“Drift” is a descriptive term shared with a handful of other bird species, referring to the loose, unhurried movement of a group carried along together, much like debris drifting on a current. It’s a fitting alternative for a bird whose entire life is built around effortless, sustained flight.

Swift Facts

• Almost never land: common swifts can remain continuously airborne for up to ten months at a time, eating, sleeping, and even mating on the wing.
• Extremely fast flyers: the common swift is one of the fastest birds in level flight, capable of sustained speeds over 60 mph.
• Weak legs: swifts have very small, weak legs adapted only for clinging to vertical surfaces, they can barely walk and struggle to take off from flat ground.
• Not related to swallows: despite looking similar and sharing similar aerial-feeding habits, swifts are more closely related to hummingbirds than to swallows.

Example Sentences

• A flock of swifts screamed past the rooftops in the fading evening light.
• A drift of swifts circled high above the church tower.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a group of swifts called?

A flock, with drift also used to describe their loose, gliding movement.

How long can swifts stay in the air?

Common swifts can remain continuously airborne for up to ten months, eating, sleeping, and even mating on the wing.

Are swifts and swallows the same?

No. Despite looking similar and sharing aerial-feeding habits, swifts are more closely related to hummingbirds than to swallows.

Why can’t swifts walk well?

Swifts have very small, weak legs adapted only for clinging to vertical surfaces, making it difficult for them to walk or take off from flat ground.