Learn how the Oropendula of Tambopata weave their nests.

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How To: Make a Hanging Home

Learn how the Oropendula of Tambopata weave their nests.

by Danielle Krautmann

 

As you enjoy your boat ride up the Madre de Dios river in Tambopata, you may notice large tear drop shaped masses hanging from some of the tall trees in the canopy. These are bird nests, built by the Oropendola, who's behavior is similar to the Weaver birds of Africa. 

 

The Tambopata region has 4 types of Oropendola Casique, who also weaves it's nest:

 

• Olive Oropendola
• Russet Backed Oropendola
• Crested Oropendola,
• Casqued Oropendola

 

Lets find out how WE can make a nest just like these talented birds:

 

1.    Pick your tree.  Look for an isolated tree to help avoid predators such as monkeys and Toucans.  While Olive Oropendolas prefer emergent trees inside the forest, the Russet Backed Oropendola likes the forest edge, while the Crested Oropendola tends to build its nest in between the middle of the forest and forest edge.  Casqued Oropendolas only build their nests in primary forest. 

 

2.    Find the prime spot: The best place to build your nest is in the middle of the tree, farthest and more protected from predators such as monkeys and toucans.  The males fight for this perfect location.

 

3.    Collect your supplies: Oropendolas use long palm fibers, sticks and vines to build their nests.

 

4.    Begin Construction:  Start with the foundation by weaving strong pieces of palm fibers between the branches of the tree.  Next, fill in the spaces by weaving more fibers of palm, grass and sticks tightly until you have created a nest in the shape of a tear drop. Don’t forget to leave a hole through which you can enter and exit. 

 

5.    Find your mate: Now that you have built your nest, you can find your mate.  The alpha male chooses the most experienced female who builds her nest closer to the center of the tree while the older males mate with the inexperienced females whole nests are on the outer branches.  

 

Okay!  Now who’s going to give it a try?

 

Spot an Oropedula nest on a tour with us at Tambopata Ecotours!