Apodidae

Swifts, or Apodidae, are a family of birds known for their exceptional flying abilities. Although they resemble swallows, they are not closely related and belong to the order Apodiformes, which also includes hummingbirds. Treeswifts, while similar, belong to a different family called Hemiprocnidae.

Their similarities with swallows result from convergent evolution—adaptations developed due to similar lifestyles, especially catching insects in flight.

The name “Apodidae,” derived from the Greek word ἄπους (ápous) meaning “footless,” reflects their small, weak legs. Historically, swifts were often depicted without feet, influencing the heraldic symbol known as a martlet.