Swiftlet

/swˈɪftlət/

Swiftlet

a small bird found in Southeast Asia and nearby Pacific islands, known for its ability to navigate and echolocate while flying at high speeds

synonyms : Collocalia inexpectata

What is a "swiftlet"?

A swiftlet is a small, agile bird found in various parts of the world, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. They are known for their swift and acrobatic flight and ability to navigate through narrow spaces with remarkable precision. With their slender bodies, long wings, and forked tails, swiftlets are superb aerial hunters, feeding on insects while in flight. Many species of swiftlets are known for their unique nest-building behavior, constructing edible nests made of saliva, which are highly prized in some cultures for their culinary and medicinal value. These sociable birds often gather in large flocks, creating impressive aerial displays as they maneuver through the skies.

Examples

1. In fact, swiftlet nests are 40% to 50% protein.

2. In the wild, the swiftlet builds its nest at dangerous heights, usually in mountaintop caves.

3. Swiftlets are known to be an endangered species.

4. In the last few decades, the swiftlet farming industry has exploded.