The Indian Swiftlet or Indian Edible-Nest Swiftlet is a small swift. It is a common resident colonial breeder in the hills of Sri Lanka and southwest India.
Region
South Asia
Typical Environment
Found mainly in the hills of southwest India, especially the Western Ghats, and across the central and southwestern highlands of Sri Lanka. It breeds in natural caves, tunnels, and occasionally abandoned structures, often near forested slopes. Foraging occurs over forest canopy, open country, plantations, and along ridgelines and river valleys. It is a year-round resident, with colonies occupying the same cave systems across seasons.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Indian swiftlet, also called the Indian edible-nest swiftlet, nests colonially in caves and binds its cup-shaped nest with saliva. Like many Aerodramus swiftlets, it uses audible clicks for simple echolocation inside dark caves. Its nests have been harvested in some areas, so sustainable management and protection of key colonies are important.
Indian Swiftlet in Thattekad, Kerala, India
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
fast, with rapid scything wingbeats and agile swoops
Social Behavior
Highly colonial, nesting in dense clusters on cave walls and ceilings. Nests are built from saliva mixed with fine materials and adhere to vertical surfaces. Pairs typically defend a small area around the nest but tolerate close neighbors.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are high, thin twittering notes in flight. Inside caves it produces audible clicking calls used for rudimentary echolocation.
