Georgie Lawless witnessed southern masked weavers desperately try to defend their chicks, when a boomslang wrapped itself around their nests in search of an easy meal at the Ngala Private Game Reserve.
An unlikely spectacle among the masked weaver nests
When mentioning a masked weaver, one immediately things of the birds’ immaculate nests, which are built with precision and brilliance. However, Georgie got to witness even more fascinating qualities of the bird species in this incredible sighting.
An opportunistic snake, a boomslang, had wrapped itself around the branch and around the masked weaver nests. Its lithe form stretched between the nests as its head searched for food.
Boomslang translates to “tree snake”. These snakes are fascinating reptiles. The males of the species are usually bright green, while females are gray or olive-brown.
These skilled predators often target weaver bird nests, creating chaos as the birds fiercely defend their young. Despite their desperate efforts, the weavers often fall short in protecting their chicks.
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Birds step up in unity against predator
Georgie explains she saw the birds do everything in their power to defend their chicks from the snake. The birds literally dive-bombed the predator, coming at it with speed and force.
Southern masked weavers are generally known for their ability to build beautiful, precise nests, which hang from branches. This encounter was a demonstration of the sheer strength of the nests, and the lengths the birds will go to to protect their young.
The southern masked weaver typically nests in colonies from September to January. Males are polygamous, often having multiple female partners. Throughout the breeding season, a single male can construct up to 25 nests, showcasing their impressive nest-building skills.
Snake retains its composure in spite of opposition
The boomslang moved with stealth and managed to balance itself precariously between the nests, stretched out across them. When the birds came for it, its head struck out in retaliation.
It wasn’t about to give in to the birds; and they weren’t about to back down so easily. The result was a big commotion!
The boomslang showed incredible strength through the way it literally dangled by its tail, even while the birds harassed it.
Snake makes a move, then escapes quickly
However, in a swift and calculated move, the snake eventually managed to breach a nest, snatching what it could before making a quick escape. Its agility and strength were remarkable, despite the constant resistance from vigilant prey.
Georgie and fellow travelers marveled at the resilience of the snake, as well as the resilience of the birds and their nests. They learned that masked weaver nests are beautiful, but they are also strong!
Masked weaver nests are crafted from natural materials such as reeds, palm fronds, or grass. Once a female selects a nest, she lines it with soft grass and feathers to create a cozy and safe environment for her eggs.
Nests are commonly built in trees, often hanging over water for added protection against predators. When situations with predators do arise, Georgie and those with her learned that the birds will put everything into a fight to protect their offspring.
They also witnessed some harsh realities of the wild, where even the best of efforts doesn’t always keep nature’s relentless predators away.