Date: 5/31/26 5:59 pm From: Oliver Zhang via groups.io <BLACKROCKARTSTUDIO...> Subject: [southbaybirds] White-throated Swift near Guadalupe Parkway
BIRD REPORT — White-throated Swift (Aeronautes saxatalis)
Location: Guadalupe Parkway, under Hwy 87 overpass, near SJPD parking lot, San Jose, CA
Date: May 31, 2026
Time: ~07:00 AM
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What an incredible start to the morning! While volunteering at the San Jose Half Marathon and stationed under the Highway 87 overpass near the Guadalupe Parkway, I heard a series of distinctive, chattering calls overhead. I looked up and saw a pair of WHITE-THROATED SWIFTs slicing through the early morning sky with breathtaking speed and agility.
These birds were absolutely flying with purpose, darting and banking through the air beneath the overpass structure with effortless precision. I managed to capture several rough shots. Back home, reviewing the images confirmed the ID, the bold white throat patch and distinctive white flank stripes were clearly visible against the dark plumage.
My guess is the bridge structures mimic the natural cliff faces these birds favor for nesting, and the Guadalupe River greenway below provides an abundant insect buffet. This is a species well worth watching for in this area.
There were also a dozen or so NORTHERN ROUGH WINGED SWALLOWs
Do not disclose information that identifies the location of nesting birds of any species, to minimize stress on the nesting birds and the risk of vandalism or abuse.
