Nest building and nest destruction by the masked weaver,Ploceus velatus

This paper describes a series of observations relating to the building and destruction of nests by a single masked weaver, Ploceus velatus, over a period of six consecutive years (1975–1980 inclusive). Contrary to previous published accounts the period of most intensive activity preceded the rainy season, and nest destruction was as conspicuous as nest construction throughout the eight month breeding season. The choice of nest sites was recorded and the process of nest construction and destruction described.