Unusual
nests
Birds’ nests vary hugely in size and
structure. Some birds nest in simple
hollows (scraps) in the ground, while
others weave nests of astounding
complexity. Nest building is entirely
instinctive; although a bird gets better
with practice, it needs no training.
String nest
This baglike
nest, built by the
Baltimore oriole, is
made of cattle hair
and string. The bird
has skilfully wound
some string around a
twig to form a support.
String
Cattle hair
Weaver at work
Weaver nests begin as a knotted ring, which is
then extended downwards to form a spherical
chamber. An entrance funnel may then be added.
Baltimore oriole perching
above its distinctive
baglike nest
Twig forming a support
for the nest