A male Principe weaver (Ploceus princeps), endemic to Principe island. Although Principe is a small island, its diversity is still largely intact and thus most of the endemic species are common and widespread.
When I arrived here the building of nests was in full swing.
The males were completely absorbed in courting the females, fencing off any competing males and completing their nest building. It was fun watching how they neatly peeled off a perfectly sized piece of a palm leaf and weaved it into their nest and how their nests were dangling at the very end of a branch or palm frond.
Each time the female came to investigate the male exploded in excitement.
After some days the nests were completed and the females started the business of egg laying. Silence ensued – except for the regular assertive vocalizations from the male.
Elevation: 10 meters
It sounds like this:
Last updated on 8 November 2024
Now I see why you’ve been totally captivated by this lovely island! I spent almost an hour browsing around, and listening to the songs of the birds. How delightful, Morton! I’m afraid that it’s going to take many more hours to view the rest of your stunning collections, but what a better way to spend a cold Ohio winter’s day! Thank you so much for posting your photographs, Morton. I’m absolutely mesmerized!
Hey Kathy! Thank you for your lovely comment and for looking through my posts! Oh yes, it is a very special island, and looking back I wish I captured more of the landscapes and the back-side of the little island Caroco Islet. It stands as an obelisk up from the depth of the Atlantic, and I wish I had captured it, as it is really unique. As you know there is another island that has captured my heart – Socotra, and lots of images are being posted soon. I’ve currently uploaded photos of the first two days, so 4 to go, and then I will do the write-ups and postings. It appears we are both enjoying our time indoors and in front of the screen. But one of these days warm days will come and no better place but outdoors.
I’ve seen the winter storms sweeping across the US, but hope you’re not hit as hard as California. It appears we are being hit by something different entirely – colder and drier weather – possibly lasting for weeks! In summer this would mean heatwave and drought!