While visiting Crocworld, I came across this pair of weavers bathing. I had to zoom in as they were about 50m from me and I was scared they will fly away if I came any closer. I was lucky to get a shot of each taking a dip in the water.

You can find these birds in most parts of South Africa. They feed on insects like termites, aphids, locusts, beetles and caterpillar larvae; also on nectar from the Aloe plants and seeds. They live in the open woodlands, grassland and semi-deserts.

They are prey to Sparrow hawks, Purple Herons, Grey-headed bush-shrike, the Bird snake and domestic cats.

Their breeding season is from September to January. The males build woven nests from reeds, grass leaves and palm pieces. The females line the nests with soft grass and feathers and lays about 2-4 eggs which is incubated for 12 days. Both parents make turns to feed the young. The chicks leave the nest anything from 17 to 21 days.

photos taken with Nikon L840.

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Very nice pictures and post!

Thank you very much team101. I love doing research on the objects of my photographs and inform my audience. The photos can and will improve as I gain more experience.

I am glad you liked them doitvoluntarily, thank you.

Your post is just perfect. There is everything. Story, determination, location, even biology of the species + nice documentary photos.
Every time I am photographing in the nature there is an obstacle like grass in your case.
And moreover, I like birds.

Thank you very much valtr. Yes, this shot was tricky but worth it. I am not a photographer but love taking photos of the beauty I see around me. I still need to go for some lessons to learn how to use my camera properly, but for the time being, this will have to suffice.

Southern/African Masked Weavers Taking A Bath

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