Tuesday, March 20, 2012

The incredible Sociable Weaver's nest: The biggest in the world

While travelling towards and out of Upington on my way to Kgalagadi, I was fascinated by numerous nests of Sociable Weavers in all shapes and sizes on telephone poles and other structures. Inside the park, the giant nest were seen on old huge trees.It was an interesting characteristic feature of the arid landscape. (Right click the image to enlarge)

Skilful Sociable Weaver
 
Even at mid day it was still hard at work

The giant nest can host a colony of ±500 birds
The various chambers still active even when the tree has fallen

Telephone poles were of  great use outside the park



9 comments:

  1. It is amazing. They are definitely Sociable birds!

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  2. These are interesting photos! Consider submitting to PHOWN (Photos of Weaver Nests, http://weavers.adu.org.za/phown.php)
    To see all Sociable Weaver records in PHOWN so far, see http://weavers.adu.org.za/phown_sp.php?Spp=783
    Dieter Oschadleus

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  3. Oooooooh yes!
    These colony nests can be huge!
    I've seen them in Namibia and South-West Africa... Very impressive!
    Sometimes, the poles break down! LOL!
    Lovely picture reminding me of some of my best memories!
    Cheers!

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    Replies
    1. Hi Noushka,
      I am happy to hear that the pictures remind you of some of your best memories.
      Thanx

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  4. Fantastic photographs, and a fantastic blog you've got here also. Weavers are one of those birds that always put a smile on my face

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