The Alpine Swift is a bird that can sleep while flying.
How Alpine Swifts Sleep on the Wing
The long migration flights of many bird species don't allow for many chances to stop and rest. Some birds, like the Alpine Swift, have adapted to this challenge by sleeping while flying using unihemispheric slow-wave sleep (USWS). USWS allows the bird to sleep and navigate simultaneously. In fact, there is evidence that the Alpine Swift can fly non-stop for 200 days, sleeping while in flight!
Here's a summary of the Alpine Swift and its sleeping habits:
Bird | Sleeps While Flying | Flight Duration |
---|---|---|
Alpine Swift | Yes | Up to 200 days |