R thew (Birds & wildlife)
(Common swift)
Common swift (Apus apus)
Meaning behind the name:
Apus, has connections to the Scientific name "Hirundo" used for Swallows. The Greek word "Apus" literally means "without foot"
Did you know?
Swifts are aerial birds and will do everything on the wing: feed, sleep and mate. The only time they land is when they nest under the eaves of house roofs in small gaps. They use their feet to help cling on to the ledges to get inside the small gaps. Their feet are designed to do this and are totally useless to stand or perch with. This is why they were given the Scientific name "Apus" as they appeared they lacked any feet.
The English name "Swift" started of as one of many a local names that were given it. It was given more attention in 1668 in Charleton "Horse Marten or Swift" and thereafter. It's dark plumage gave rise to superstitions and had some names given it like: Devil bird, Devil dick and Devil swallow. The screeching call it has encouraged names like: Devil screech, Devil screamer, Devil shrieked and even Screech martin.
Other names included: Black swallow or martin or screech, Collier (these are just a few of many)
(Common swift)
Common swift (Apus apus)
Meaning behind the name:
Apus, has connections to the Scientific name "Hirundo" used for Swallows. The Greek word "Apus" literally means "without foot"
Did you know?
Swifts are aerial birds and will do everything on the wing: feed, sleep and mate. The only time they land is when they nest under the eaves of house roofs in small gaps. They use their feet to help cling on to the ledges to get inside the small gaps. Their feet are designed to do this and are totally useless to stand or perch with. This is why they were given the Scientific name "Apus" as they appeared they lacked any feet.
The English name "Swift" started of as one of many a local names that were given it. It was given more attention in 1668 in Charleton "Horse Marten or Swift" and thereafter. It's dark plumage gave rise to superstitions and had some names given it like: Devil bird, Devil dick and Devil swallow. The screeching call it has encouraged names like: Devil screech, Devil screamer, Devil shrieked and even Screech martin.
Other names included: Black swallow or martin or screech, Collier (these are just a few of many)