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3 No 1 Jun 96 Nature's Nest Architects at Sungei Buloh A Close Look at Nature: speech by Dr Aline Wong Events for Clean & Green Week: Spot-Art Competition and Treasure Hunt Wader Ringing Programme: Shoot the Birds! Photography at Sungei Buloh Wader Watching at the Main Hide VIP visits |
An old French proverb says that Man can do everything except build a bird's nest. Birds build some of the most beautiful and sophisticated natural structures. The variety and complexity of nests are astonishing when you consider that birds work with the simplest of tools and materials.  Baya
WeaverTo catch a glimpse of the backbreaking work that goes into nest-building, go to the freshwater ponds at the western part of Sungei Buloh Nature Park (Route 3). Here you will see small flocks of ten to twenty yellow and black Baya Weaver in constant motion around green spheres suspended from the tree branches. These birds are adept at using their strong beaks to knot and weave: the two basic skills used in basket building. To make the first fastening, the bird ties a knot by holding a strip of grass to a branch with its foot and then, using its beak, it passes the end of the strip round the branch and threads it through the turn, pulling it tight. Once the fastening is complete, the bird starts weaving. The process of weaving involves threading a strip beneath another that runs at right angles. The strip is pulled tight after each threading. The entrance passage to the nest is a long and downward tube which makes it difficult for predators (e.g., snakes) to plunder the nest. Tailorbird The tailorbirds are known for their charming appearance and tedious, repetitive songs. These small warblers are so-named because of their ability to sew one or two adjacent leaves together, using cobwebs or plant fibres as thread. They use their bills to make holes in the leaves and to pull the thread through these holes. Plant materials and feathers are stuffed into the cavity formed. These nests may be just a few inches off the ground. The next time you visit Sungei Buloh Nature Park, try to spot the avian version of huts, townhouses, apartment buildings and castles. You can spend many hours observing the birds building their homes, raising their young and fending off intruders. If you come across a nest, remember the pointers for minimal impact. Do keep your distance to minimise disturbance. Please resist the temptation to bring the nests or eggs home. Come see these resident birds at their nest-building best during the month of June. |
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