File:Sociable weaver nest colony - DPLA - 7647b991d06c347722a59b14ff5aabcd.jpg

35 mm slide; color. Scientific Classification: Kingdom: Animalia; Phylum: Chordata; Class: Aves; Order: Passeriformes; Family: Ploceidae; Genus: Philetairus; Genus species: Philetairus socius. Animal characteristics: Head-Body Length: 14 cm; Identification: The sociable weaver is dull brown with a black face mask, a bluish bill and back, and its wings are patterned with black spots; Habitat: Dry thorn country; Diet: Omnivore: insects, seeds; Reproduction: Two to four eggs are produced per clutch; Social Structure: As their name suggests, sociable weavers form very large flocks, numbering from just a few birds to several hundred; Behavior: Both sexes help to build their impressive nest; Status: No special status; Interesting Facts: A single sociable weaver nest can house up to 400 birds at one time, have up to 95 entrances, last over 100 years, weigh more than a ton, and measure 7.4 m long, 4.4 m wide, and 1.5 m high. The birds actually create the nest by thatching, not weaving, twigs, grass, and straw together. The inside is lined with feathers and fur. Nests are waterproof and well-insulated.