A common sight along riverbeds, above dams and above pools across the lowveld are grass or twig nest structures hanging from branches. These structures are carefully and perfectly made by weaver birds, and in this case, specifically the beautifully coloured Red-Headed Weaver (Anaplectes rubriceps). The rough-looking nests with a 15-20cm long tunnel are the masterful creations of the Red-Headed Weaver which is in fact the only true weaver that uses twigs instead of grass as a building material. The male Red-Headed Weaver will construct a nest on a hanging branch above water or on a power-line, these specific areas making it difficult for predators such as a Boomslang to get to the chicks. The males construct the nests in the breeding season which is from October to March. During the mating season the males will develop their characteristic red heads, which are used to impress females and as a sign of maturity. Once the male has completed his nest a female will inspect the nest and, if she accepts it, she will line the nest with leaves as a sign of approval. The completion of the nest will be followed by mating, and later 2-3 pale blue eggs will be laid. The eggs will be incubated for 12-13 days by both male and female. The parents are on high alert at this stage as the Diederik Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx caprius) is a well-known brood parasite of the Red-Headed Weaver. If the female weaver does not accept the nest, the male will destroy his nest and start again – males make an average of six nests each breeding season! It is truly remarkable that these small birds can construct such precise and sturdy structures using just their claws and beaks. The perseverance and patience that the males exhibit in order to assure the future of their species is remarkable.
Report and images by Josh (male weaver on the right)
