Bismarck swiftlet

Aerodramus papuensis

The Bismarck swiftlet (Aerodramus papuensis) is a small, insectivorous bird found in the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea. This swiftlet is known for its remarkable aerial acrobatics, often seen darting and swooping through the air as it catches flying insects on the wing. It has a distinctive forked tail and a dark, glossy plumage. The Bismarck swiftlet constructs its nest using saliva, which is then attached to the walls of caves or other suitable structures. These nests are highly prized and collected for use in bird's nest soup, leading to concerns about the species' population decline due to overharvesting.

Habitat: Caves and cliffs in tropical and subtropical regions