The Cape weaver is what they call a "polygynous, territorial colonial nester," meaning each male may have up to 7 females in a breeding season, and forms a colony of between 2 and 20 males who also build and defend multiple nests.
The female weaver watches the week-long process while her suitor weaves a waterproof nest using strips of grass or reeds woven together. When the male hangs on the bottom of the nest he has built, calling to her and fluttering his wings, she inspects his work. If she accepts, the male bird builds an entrance and she lines the nursery with feathers, leaves and grass. If it does not meet her standards, she may tear it down, causing the male to build another; or she may reject his wooing altogether in favor of another suitor.
In the end, nest-building for a male weaver is instinctive, but it’s a skill that takes practice in order to successfully woo a mate.
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