Aerodramus unicolor (Jerdon, 1840)

Species Nomenclature

Aerodramus unicolor, commonly called the Indian Swiftlet or Indian Edible-Nest Swiftlet, is a small species of swift.

Breeding Range

It is a common resident colonial breeder that lives in the hills of Sri Lanka and southwest India.

Nest Construction Basics

This species builds half-cup nests on vertical surfaces, most often inside caves.

Egg Laying

Males use thick saliva to construct the white, shiny nests, in which the female lays two eggs.

Human Use of Nests

The nests of this species, which are relatively tasteless, are harvested to make bird's nest soup, mixed with chicken, spices, and other flavors, and the soup is thought to be an aphrodisiac.

Body Size

The species reaches 12 cm in length.

Body Coloration

It is mainly dark brown on its upper side, and paler brown on its underside.

Wing Shape

Its swept-back wings resemble a crescent or a boomerang.

Body and Tail Structure

It has a slender body and a short, only slightly indented tail.

Sexual and Juvenile Appearance

Both adult sexes and young individuals look similar.

Leg Adaptations

The Indian Swiftlet has very short legs, which it only uses to cling to vertical surfaces, because swifts never settle voluntarily on the ground.

Flight and Feeding Behavior

These swifts spend most of their lives flying, feeding on insects they catch with their bills, and even drink while in flight.