UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY

The intricate nesting habits of the Baya Weaver Ploceus philippinus were studied in the agricultural landscape of Dharmabad, Nanded district, Maharashtra, between April and September 2026. This research focuses on Baya Weaver nesting habits such as nesting sites, nesting colonies, nesting materials, nest construction, nest repair, clay deposits on nest walls, various developmental stages of nests and certain threats to their nests. A total of 70 nests at different developmental stages (wad stage, ring stage, helmet stage, egg-chamber closed stage and complete nest stage) were studied. Of the 70 nests, 42 (60%) were active, 18 (26%) were abandoned and 10 (14%) had fallen to the ground. The Baya Weaver uses leaf fibres of palm fronds (Indian date palm), sugarcane leaves, paddy leaves and coarse grasses as nesting materials and takes an average of 18 days, ranging from 6–48 days, depending on the environmental conditions suitable for nest construction. Various anthropogenic activities, environmental factors (monsoon rain, wind, temperature and humidity), and natural predators such as crows, treepies, raptors, snakes and lizards pose threats to the Baya Weaver. Our research findings suggest that the Baya Weaver possesses specific adaptations for nesting in particular tree species, such as acacia and various tall palm trees. The present study enhances understanding of nesting habits of Baya Weaver and provides insights for the conservation of this species.