ZAGREB, 26 Nov (Hina) – The common swift (Apus apus) has been chosen as the “Bird of the Year” for 2026 in Croatia’s popular annual competition. The contest, organized by the Biom association in partnership with the Croatian Birds and Nature Conservation Society, saw over a thousand bird lovers cast their votes.
From November 14-24, participants voted for their favorite bird, with the common swift securing 40.4% of the vote. It beat out two other finalists: the European shag, which received 32.3%, and the Eurasian spoonbill, with 27.3%.
The “Bird of the Year” contest aims to raise awareness about bird species that are facing environmental challenges, often due to habitat loss and other threats. The goal is to highlight the need for conservation efforts to protect these species and their habitats.
About the Common Swift
The common swift is a small migratory bird that arrives in Croatia each year at the end of winter to raise its young. Though similar in appearance and behavior to swallows, the common swift is actually more closely related to hummingbirds, which are native to the Americas.
This bird is one of three swift species found in Croatia and is the most widespread. Known for its incredible flight abilities, the common swift spends most of its life in the air, often never touching down during migration or at its wintering sites. Remarkably, the common swift can even sleep while flying.
While these birds traditionally nest in rock crevices on remote cliffs, they are increasingly found in urban areas, where they build nests in cracks in walls, under eaves, and in roof cavities.
Preferring warmer climates, the common swift is found across Croatia, but it is especially abundant along the country’s coast.
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