21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Building a Nest

A male Village Weaver (Ploceus cucullatus) at the beginning of the nest-building process which involves complex weaving of vegetation into an enclosed chamber with an entrance tunnel. The male displays at his nest to attract potential mates. This is mostly done once the nest is complete, but here he displays very early in the process.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Kleinemonde village, South Africa
Camera: Canon EOS M6 Mark II
Copyright: © James Harrison