The Long rigid bamboo and Rattan ladders used by the bird's nests collectors are stored at the entrance of the Madai Cave (Borneo)..
Swiftlet's edible bird's nests are praised by Chinese people who use them to prepare bird's nest soup. The sale of those nests is the main source of revenue for the nearby village of Madai.
The bird's nests are harvested from the highest part of the cave (up to 50m high), using bamboo and rattan ladders and ropes. The bird's nest collectors use no harness and no safety equipment.
View my other photos of the Madai Cave.