weaver bird's nests at jalan gemala

was exploring the lim chu kang area when i came across this tree laden with bird nests - no, not chinese delicacy bird's nest. later, found out that there were a number of trees with such nests. saw the small baya weaver visiting the nest.

baya weaver's nest is an architectural feat. it hangs from a palm frond or branch and looks like an upside down flask. the general features are a central nesting area with a long tube that leads to a side entrance. this tube makes it difficult even for snakes to enter the nest. although they look precarious, most nests are very well attached and are impossible to remove without almost destroying the nest. the nests last well through the 3-month breeding season, sometimes even up to a year.

after the breeding season, other small birds may roost in the abandoned nests. the nests are made entirely out of strips of grass which the birds collect by cutting a notch in a tall grass, then stripping off a 30-60cm length.

no stalks or entire grass blades are used. the birds then use their strong beaks to weave and knot the strips of grass. a newly-made nest is green with fresh grass and turns brown as the grass dries. a bird may make up to 500 trips to complete a nest.