The Edible-nest Swiftlet is a small bird found in Southeast Asia, renowned for building nests made entirely from its hardened saliva.
These swiftlets build their nests on cave walls, using their saliva, which hardens into a gelatinous structure, to create the nest.
The nests of the Edible-nest Swiftlet are highly valued in Asian cuisine, particularly in bird's nest soup, considered a luxury delicacy.
Rich in protein and minerals, these nests are believed to have various health benefits, making them a sought-after ingredient in traditional medicine.
The high demand for these nests has led to over-harvesting, raising concerns about the conservation of swiftlet populations and their habitats.
In many Asian cultures, consuming bird’s nest soup is believed to promote health and longevity, making it a symbol of wealth and status.