Janice Lafuente Talip, a woman from the Philippines, received an unexpected visitor in the form of a flock of swiftlets. The flock took sanctuary in her home, relaxing on her veranda's ledge.
According to Coconuts Manila, she posted about her problem on the Home Buddies Facebook group, asking for advice on how to cope with the birds.
Photo via Mashable SEA
She wrote, "Badly need suggestions – please help me. What's the best approach to get these birds to leave my house? We've tried a lot of things, but they keep coming back."
The flock of birds can be seen chirping loudly as they flap their wings around their new hiding area in the video she shared. Because of their black feathers and twitching wings, the flock could easily be mistaken for a colony of bats.
She explained that, in addition to the loud noises they make, especially at night, the birds' presence has also dirtied her patio area.
Many on the internet recognized the birds, which are locally known as Balinsasayaw and are known for making nests out of their saliva rather than twigs. And… if you're Asian, you've definitely heard of bird's nest soup, and while drinking bird spit may not sound very appetizing, it's actually quite tasty!
Well, actually, we wouldn’t know because we’ve never tried it, but most people we’ve met who have tried bird’s nest soup said they’re pretty delicious. Not only that, but bird’s nest soup is also famously known for its many health benefits.
Photo via Mashable SEA
Others also said that the birds were regarded by some as a sign of good luck: “These Balinsasayaw birds produce a very valuable ingredient for Nido Soup. You can just let them stay and the Chinese who own a restaurant will come to you.
“You are very lucky to have them in your house,” one person said.
Actually, these are very helpful… we did learn something new from this, huh?
We hope Janice finds a way to safely and gently get rid of the birds!
By: Aishah Akashah Ahadiat
