Weaver Birds

These nests are made by weaver birds. When you look up into the tree, there are many, many nests. The birds weave these intricate nests- almost like a basket! There is a nice little YouTube video on Weaver birds at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qFNT6uq0WAw

Weaver birds get their name because of their elaborately woven nests (the most elaborate of any birds'). The nests we saw seemed to be made of grasses and small twigs- they were round with a small round opening facing downward. If you gave me some fine grasses, twigs, and fibers, I don't think I could come close to making what these remarkable birds can weave with just their beaks and feet! The birds apear to be quite social and very noisy! When you lok up into a tree, you see many nests, often several on the same branch! The birds build their nests together for protection. Usually the male birds weave the nests and use them as a form of display to lure prospective females. If she likes the nest, she mates with the male.