SEOGWIPO, August 5 (Korea Bizwire) — A rare sighting of white swallow chicks perched on a power line in Daepo-dong, Seogwipo, on Jeju Island drew local attention on Monday morning, as the young birds awaited food from their mother.
White swallows are considered omens of good fortune in East Asian folklore. Their unusual appearance is believed to result from albinism, a rare genetic mutation that causes pigment deficiency.
As rare as the birds themselves is the prized delicacy derived from their nests. In Chinese haute cuisine, “white bird’s nests” made entirely of pure swallow saliva are regarded as the highest grade, celebrated for their purity and health benefits.
The reddish variant, known as “red bird’s nests,” acquires its hue through natural oxidation, and is also valued for its distinctive flavor.
Swallow nest consumption dates back centuries, with historical records indicating it was a favored tonic among Chinese royals during the Song Dynasty.
Today, the nests remain highly sought-after as luxury health foods and beauty supplements. Major production hubs include Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Image credit: Yonhap / photonews@koreabizwire.com
