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A gregarious Old World bird, the Weaverbird is found predominantly in desert environments of Sub-Saharan Africa, though several other Weaverbird species can be spotted across Europe and tropical Asia. Often seen hanging upside down and fluttering his wings in courtship display, the golden-colored male fashions a nest of palm fronds, tall grasses, and miscellaneous fibers to entice prospective mates. These males have a lot to prove: The quality of their nest advertises their skill and worth to observant females, who ultimately pick which structure to inhabit.

This image was a Top 100 photo from the 2011 Ô¼ÅÚÊÓƵ Magazine Photography Awards. To see all of the photos, .

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