Cape Weaver (Ploceus capensis)
July is the month that you will start to notice a fair amount of activity from the Cape Weaver. Males Weavers have started to come in to breeding plumage and are currently building their nests for the prize of attracting female weavers into their intricately woven nests. The nests are built from material such as fresh green grass which contracts when dry and therefore strengthens the nest. Once the nest is accepted by a female weaver, she will then line the inside of the nest with softer material, such as the leaves of the False Olive Buddleja saligna.
Contrary to popular belief the male weaver is the one who will demolish unaccepted nests, not the female weaver. If you know of a colony nearby, go and observe how these magnificent birds construct their nests in their colony. A typical colony size can consist of around 20 nests.
Research is currently being done on all weavers, including Bishops and Widowbirds and their nesting habits through the Animal Demographic Unit of the University of Cape Town.
If you know of a Weaver colony in your garden or close by, you can contribute by sending your photos and nest counts to Photos of Weaver Nests (PHOWN) at http://vmus.adu.org.za/.
There will be a login process and you will need to register first to submit your finds.
Alternatively to learn more about Weavers go to http://weavers.adu.org.za
Keep a look out for the Southern Masked Weaver too!!
References:
Beat About the Bush Birds-Trevor Carnaby-Jacana Media-2008
Roberts Nests and Eggs of Southern African Birds-Warwick Tarboton-Jacana Media and John Voelcker Bird Book Fund-2011
Regards
Gareth Robbins
info@goldenorbtours.co.za
082 5253 946