We saw some of the most beautiful birds in Africa. The names are very descriptive – such as ruby breasted…something or other
Well. It’s got the most beautifully colored breast. And ruby color, at that. “Red” or “dark pinkish red” aren’t as vibrant a description as “ruby”.
The social weavers are fascinating. A real social study. We saw hundreds of them.
They build condominiums – nests with several entrances – one for each bird or family. They’re huge. And when a group, or a bird, wants to start a new religion or doesn’t like the homeowners’ association rules, or wants its own power; it moves. But not far. It may just move a branch away and be on top of its former condo units.
Social Weavers nests-front doors. Photo by Jofie Lamprecht Photography © 2010.
I saw one tree with 6 or 7 condo association nests. It was about to completely fall down.
Reminded me of people. Lost Angeles comes to mind but there are others all over the world. I remember the first time I drove my Dad around Bel Air and Beverly Hills – all these huge houses. My father’s comment: “Why these are all just row houses.” He was right. They are all on top of each other.
Eventually, I was told, the tree will fall down from all the weight. Mud slides anyone?
Social Weaver nests strangling their host: Jofie Lamprecht Photography © 2010.
It may just die first from the social weavers covering its leaves from the sun and rain or stripping it of its leaves (and one main manner of getting nutrition and surviving).
Reminds me of some developers I’ve read about.
Sometimes owls or eagles, more powerful than the social weavers, will nest on top of the condos nest, often driving out the social weavers. More developers – justifying themselves with language. “Gentrifying”.
And if the more powerful gentrifiers don’t drive them out, they may just send in a mamba to slither in and out of the openings
and eat the social weavers.
Yup. Those social weavers and surrounding environment and animals are quite the social study.
All Photos by: Jofie Lamprecht Photography © 2010.
c. GCYI