Swiftlets are highly valued for their saliva, which is used to create swiftlet nests, a luxury food item used in health supplements and cosmetics. However, many people are not aware of how long swiftlets produce their saliva.
Adult swiftlets typically begin producing saliva when they reach the age of around 5-6 months. This process occurs naturally, especially during the rainy season. During the rainy season, swiftlets will enter the breeding season and begin building their nests in safe and protected locations.
When swiftlets start building their nests, they will produce saliva that is secreted from glands located under their tongue. This saliva contains many proteins, carbohydrates, and other essential nutrients that swiftlets need to survive.
Swiftlets can continue producing saliva for several years. However, saliva production is influenced by many factors, such as season, climate, and the food they consume. In addition, swiftlets will also stop producing saliva when they feel disturbed or stressed, for example, due to human disturbance or predators around their nests.
Swiftlet nests are one of the commodities that have high economic value. These nests are very popular in Indonesia, as they have high nutritional content and incredible health benefits. Therefore, many swiftlet nest farmers want to know how often they can harvest swiftlet nests.
It should be noted that the process of harvesting swiftlet nests cannot be done every month. The harvesting process of swiftlet nests must be done when the nest is mature or sufficiently hard, but not too hard. Nests that are too hard are difficult to harvest, while nests that are still too soft can affect the quality of the swiftlet nests produced.
Usually, the time interval between swiftlet nest harvests is around 2-3 months. However, this also depends on several factors such as environmental conditions, the feeding pattern of the swiftlets, and water availability. Healthy and well-maintained swiftlets will produce more and higher-quality swiftlet nests.
In addition, the process of harvesting swiftlet nests must also be done carefully and with the right technique. If the harvesting process is not done properly, it can cause damage to the nest and the swiftlets inside. Therefore, breeders must have sufficient skills and experience in the process of harvesting swiftlet nests. Here are the correct ways to harvest swiftlet nests:
1. Equipment Preparation
The equipment required for harvesting bird’s nest includes a ladder, rope, flashlight, and a knife. Make sure all equipment is prepared and in good condition before starting the harvesting process.
2. Check Nest Condition
Before harvesting bird’s nest, make sure to check the condition of the nest and ensure that it is mature enough. Bird’s nest that is too soft or too hard cannot be harvested and can damage the nest and the birds inside.
3. Wait Until Night
Bird’s nest is active at night when they come out of the nest to find food. Therefore, the process of harvesting bird’s nest should be done at night when the birds are out looking for food.
4. Climb to the Ceiling
Usually, bird’s nests are located on the ceiling or in places that are difficult to reach. Climb to the ceiling with a ladder and ensure safety by always wearing safety equipment such as a helmet and safety rope.
5. Use a Flashlight
Bird’s nests are usually in dark places, so use a flashlight to help see the bird’s nest that is ready to be harvested.
6. Cut Bird's Nest with a Knife
After finding the bird’s nest that is ready to be harvested, cut the nest with a sharp knife. Make sure to cut the nest carefully to avoid damaging the bird’s nest.
7. Store the Nest Properly
After harvesting the bird’s nest, make sure to store it properly. Store the bird’s nest in a dry place and away from direct sunlight.