A licensed swift breeding establishment in Long An Province’s Thủ Thửa District. – Photo baolongan.vn

LONG AN – The Cửu Long (Mekong) Delta province of Long An has banned the breeding of swifts in urban areas starting this month.

Its People’s Committee said the ban is also applicable in existing and proposed residential areas approved by competent agencies.

All other areas are allowed to breed the birds but those raising them have to ensure their nests are at least 300 metres distant from prohibited areas.

Individuals and organisations now breeding swifts have to stop or move to permitted areas by 2025.

Swift breeding establishments in permitted areas have to ensure their facilities comply with breeding regulations.

The birds are bred for their nest, which are rich in nutrients and are traditionally believed to be beneficial to health.

The province had more than 120 such establishments last year, according to the provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Of them, 70 per cent are buildings specifically constructed for raising the birds while the rest are residential houses that were altered for the purpose. 

Most of them lack licences, and affect the lives of people around them as breeders use loudspeakers to call to the birds around the clock.

They also cause environmental pollution and a risk of diseases. – VNS