Black Swift (Cypseloides niger), Ahwatukee, Maricopa County

This Black Swift was discovered dead on the ground by Roberta and David Chorlton on 25 September 2017 and photographed by Troy Corman on a later date

 It appeared to have been dead for several days as it is desiccated and damaged by ants. Troy Corman obtained the specimen (to be deposited in a museum) on 28 October 2017 and took the photos being submitted.

Although there are 8 accepted sight-only records of Black Swift for the state, this will be the first physical evidence for Arizona (no prior photos or specimen). Given its breeding range to the north of Arizona and its status in surrounding states, this species likely migrates annually across Arizona, but most may migrate at too high of altitude to be observed regularly in the state.

Large and all slaty-black swift with broad tail and broad based wings. The white edgings to the feathers ages this as a hatch year. The size and white above the eye rule out potential vagrants from outside the United States.

25 September 2017, photo by Troy Corman