Gomantong Caves

Gomantong Caves

The Gomantong Caves are not only renowned for their valuable edible swiftlet nests but also for their rich biodiversity. The caves, nestled within the Gomantong Forest Reserve, serve as a sanctuary for various wildlife species, including the critically endangered orangutans. These majestic creatures find refuge in the lush surroundings of the caves, making it an important conservation area for their survival. In addition to orangutans, the Gomantong Caves are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The limestone hill, which is the largest in the Lower Kinabatangan area, provides a unique habitat for numerous species. One such species is the endangered land snail Plectostoma mirabile, which is exclusively found in this region. The discovery of this rare snail within the caves has further highlighted the ecological significance of the Gomantong Caves. The tradition of collecting bird's nests from the caves dates back centuries, with records of this practice dating as far back as 500 AD. Licensed locals, equipped with rattan ladders, ropes, and bamboo poles, undertake the challenging task of climbing to the roof of the caves to harvest the nests. This collection process occurs twice a year, from February to April and from July to September, to ensure sustainable harvesting practices. To protect the swiftlets and their young, the first collection is carried out early in the breeding season, before the birds lay their eggs. This allows the swiftlets to build another nest in which they eventually lay their eggs. The second collection takes place after the young have fledged, ensuring that the nests are not collected until the young swiftlets have abandoned them.