Stealing webs to build nests
The fantail’s nest is unique. While most small birds, such as the thrush and waxeye, cradle their nests among branches which support the nest structure, the fantail has other ideas.
To begin the process, the fantail usually chooses a slim, single branch that’s sheltered beneath a canopy of leaves.
The nest foundation is laid by securing chips of wood to the branch using spider web.
The web is gathered by the fantail winding web onto its head, then unwinding it back at the nest.
With a secure foundation in place, the rest of the nest is constructed using small twigs, fine grasses and moss.
As can be seen in the photograph, this material is intertwined and bound together with additional layers of spider web.
When the bowl shaped nest structure is completed, the inside is lined with layers of animal hair and fine grasses.
Two to five eggs are laid, with both male and female birds taking turns at incubation, which usually takes about fourteen days.
Notice that this nest has been built near the wall of a house. It is reported that this is an increasing trend in New Zealand.
Rats are one of the main robbers of fantail’s nests and, as strange as it may seem, the theory is that the household cats will catch the rats before they attack.