During the pre-monsoon season, on a cloudy day in May, I went bird watching in a local patch. Monsoon is breeding season for many birds in West Bengal. I first spotted some lesser whistling ducks perched on a wall, which was delightful to observe. Suddenly, I heard distinctive calls from baya birds. Following the sounds, I discovered a reed bed with tall grasses where several streaked weaver birds were busily constructing nests. I checked the birds for some time and then left them so they can carry out their work.

Streaked Weaver sitting on a grass

Streaked weaver males are quite striking in their breeding plumage, with a bright yellow cap covering the forehead and crown and streaks on their upper breast. Females look similar to non-breeding males and juveniles. Key identification features include a yellowish buff eyebrow that extends down around the back of the face, streaky flanks, and dark brown upperparts with long streaks on the back.

Nest Image Their nest-building differs from other weaver birds found in India. They prefer long grass beds with shallow water, as I noticed during my visit. The nest-building process is fascinating: males initiate construction by gathering long grasses and attaching them to create a strong upper base, then build the middle and other portions. Females visit the nests repeatedly, and if they approve, they join in the construction effort.