A genus of fast-flying swifts found in the Americas, characterized by their dark plumage and rapid, erratic flight patterns.
From Greek 'chaete' (bristle or hair) and 'oura' (tail), referring to the distinctive stiff tail feathers with protruding shafts that these birds use for maneuvering.
Chimney swifts (Chaetura pelagica) are among the fastest-accelerating birds in the world and evolved specifically to use artificial chimneys as nesting sites—before humans built chimneys, they nested in hollow trees, making them a perfect example of rapid evolutionary adaptation!
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