Scientists discovered that swallows (black sickle wings) can fly non-stop for 10 months. A study conducted by Lund University in Sweden confirmed ornithologist Ronald Lockley’s hypothesis from the 1970s about the ability of these birds to fly for long periods of time.

For the research, the team used small data loggers with accelerometers and light sensors on 13 adult swallows. Tracking their migration from Sweden to Africa and back from Sweden, scientists found that these birds spent more than 99.5% of their time in flight, stopping for only two months to breed.

During the entire 10-month migration, some swallows did not even land. Weighing approximately 40 grams, these creatures are excellent examples of flight efficiency thanks to their aerodynamic body shape and long, narrow wings.

It is not yet clear whether the exiles will sleep during flight, but researchers suggest they may rest while gliding at high altitudes. This study highlights the incredible adaptation of swallows to life in the air and their ability to make long migrations without resting. Source