Baya weavers at work [In Pictures]

KATHMANDU: The Baya weaver, scientifically known as Ploceus philippinus, is a small passerine bird renowned for its exceptional nest-building skills. These fascinating creatures have captivated the attention of bird enthusiasts and researchers alike, showcasing their remarkable ability to construct intricately woven nests.

Baya weavers are predominantly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. In Nepal, they inhabit a wide range of habitats, including grasslands, marshes, and cultivated areas, making them a familiar sight to both rural and urban communities. These social birds prefer to live in small colonies, often congregating in trees or bushes near water bodies, where they can find an abundant supply of food.

The male Baya weaver constructs an intricate, pendant-shaped nest suspended from the branches of trees. These nests are woven using long, slender grass stems and thin twigs. The male weaver loops, knots, and interweaves these materials to form a sturdy structure. The construction of these elaborate nests serves as an important courtship display for the male weaver. The females make their choice based on the nests made by the males.

A big flock of Baya weavers is currently busy making nests in Pepsi Cola Town Planning area of Kathmandu.