Abstract
An experimental study of factors determining nest selection by the female was made in a colony of African village weaverbirds ( Ploceus cucullatus) in a large, outdoor aviary at Los Angeles, California. The males are polygynous and each attempts to attract unmated females by a special display to the nest he has woven of strips torn from leaves of palms or grasses. Females prefer fresh green nests, and closeness of weave and external appearance did not seem to be as important as strength of materials. There was a high correlation between age of nests and their acceptability. Females ignore old nests that have faded to a dull brown, but painting such nests green did not restore their attractiveness. The fresher, more recently built nests were advertised the most to females by the male's display. Some females choose the same male and territory repeatedly for consecutive clutches or broods.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
