• 500 views as at 20 November 2011*

This Southern Masked Weaver continued to vigorously build its nest, oblivious to the proximity of me taking several shots from immediately below it. Several other weavers were also tending to nests in the same tree.

The photo was taken in the grounds of the Marangu Hotel,Tanzania in the shadows of Mt Kilimanjaro.

The Southern Masked-Weaver or African Masked-weaver (Ploceus velatus) is a resident breeding bird species common throughout southern Africa.

This weaver is very widespread and found in a wide range of habitats, including shrubland, savanna, grassland, open woodland, inland wetlands and semi-desert areas. It also occurs in suburban gardens and parks.

It nests in colonies, mainly from September to January. Males have several female partners, and build a succession of nests, typically 25 each season. The nests, like those of other weavers, are woven from reed, palm or grass. A female will line a selected nest with soft grass and feathers. The nest is built in a tree, often over water, but sometimes in suburbia. his weaver also nests in reeds. (Wikipedia)

Camera – Nikon D80; Lens – Tamron 28-300 VC zoom

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Framed Print

See also Southern Masked Weaver