Ploceus melanocephalus

Black-headed Weaver - There is a thriving colony of these birds in the Algarve region of Portugal. They are native to Africa. So called because of their woven nest that hang in trees, bushes and reedbeds. Those here in the Algarve are probably from escaped cage birds but thriving and breeding nevertheless. Photographs from Vilamoura reedbeds and Quinta Do Lago. 

▼ Video Clips
The male usually does most of the nest building. Here he attempts to secure the first strand of grass to the reeds at Quinta Do Lago Portugal.

John Foss Nature Photography Birds Wild Flowers Wildlife Butterflies Moths Greaghnafarna Ballinaglera Ireland Leitrim Derby England UK Algarve Portugal

▼ Female repairing the nest.