Recommended Free Tools
The common swift (Apus apus) can spend almost its entire ten-month non-breeding period airborne. A 2016 study found tagged birds were in the air for more than 99% of that period—but it did not show that every bird flew without any pause, or that common swifts sleep in flight.
What the 10-month flight record actually means
In a 2016 study published in Current Biology, researchers found that tracked common swifts were airborne for more than 99% of their ten-month non-breeding period. Some individuals never settled during the period observed. Most had occasional periods of flight inactivity, so “almost continuously airborne” is more accurate than saying every swift flew nonstop without rest. Read the study in Current Biology.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The non-breeding period includes migration and time south of the Sahara. Common swifts return to land to breed, so the finding does not mean they stay airborne all year. Lund University described the result as the longest known aerial period among birds when it reported the study in 2016; that is the researchers’ record claim at the time, not a newly verified ranking. Lund University’s 2016 report says 13 birds were followed, with some tracked for two years.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallHow researchers measured flight
The team fitted common swifts with micro-data loggers containing accelerometers to record flight activity and light-level sensors to estimate location. The paper’s abstract reports the key result as more than 99% of the ten-month period airborne, with some birds never settling and occasional inactivity in most individuals. The study measured time in the air; it did not establish that a bird was actively flapping every moment it was aloft.
#1 Best Overall
- Product Dimensions：5.91x 5.91 inches
- Celebrate Freedom and Joy: This hand-painted resin sculpture of a woman with outstretched arms and three bluebirds embodies the essence of happiness, freedom, and creative expression.
- Inspiring Graduation Gift: Ideal for graduates or anyone embarking on a new chapter, this sculpture serves as a motivational piece, encouraging them to embrace life's opportunities with creativity and joy.
- Artistic Design: The figure’s detailed craftsmanship and the three bluebirds perched on her arms symbolize the spirit of freedom and artistic expression, making it a unique and uplifting decor piece.
- Gift-Ready Packaging: Comes in an elegant gift box with a heartfelt greeting card that reads: "FREE to sing, laugh, dance… create!" – a perfect touch for celebrating achievements and encouraging creativity.
Do common swifts sleep while flying?
The study did not demonstrate that common swifts sleep in flight. In Lund University’s 2016 account, researcher Anders Hedenström said they might sleep while gliding but added that the team was not sure. The birds’ extended time airborne is evidence of remarkable endurance, not proof of how they rest or sleep.
A separate Lund University report from 2019 described evidence of short sleep periods during gliding in pallid swifts (Apus pallidus). That is a different species and should not be treated as direct evidence about common swifts. The report says four studied pallid swifts remained airborne for two to three and a half months without landing. Read Lund University’s pallid-swift report.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- Jasmine Becket-Griffith Songbird Fairies Figurine Collection: Spread your wings and fly with the Jasmine Becket-Griffith Songbird Fairies Figurine Collection, inspired by the colourful songbirds and sweet fairies created by renowned artist Jasmine Becket-Griffith.
- Meticulously Handcrafted and Hand-Painted: Each figurine in this collection is meticulously handcrafted in artist's resin and hand-painted in metallic and glossy hues, showcasing the true colours of the fairies and their feathered companions.
- Unique Ensembles: The fairies' ensembles are designed to perfectly coordinate with their songbird friends, creating a visually captivating and harmonious display.
- Expressive and Whimsical Details: From the big-eyed expressions on the fairies' faces to the intricate details of their attire, each figurine is crafted with care to bring a sense of enchantment and whimsy.
- Glittery Accents: These hand-painted figurines are enhanced with glittery accents, adding a touch of sparkle and making them truly stand out.
Rank #2
- PREMIUM QUALITY: 3.5" bird figurine, packaged in a printed box, is made from polyresin.
- IN-HOUSE DESIGN: "Always Believe That Something Wonderful Is About To Happen" text is hand-painted onto the front of the figurine, alongside hand-painted floral detailing.
- PERFECT GIFT: Great for gifting to a friend.
- CARE INSTRUCTIONS: Dust with a dry cloth, if necessary.
- MORE PRODUCTS: Angel figurines, crosses, and keepsake boxes in the same style are also available.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Leave a Reply