Baya Weaver

Found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia, this small weaver is best known for the retort-shaped nests it plaits from grass strips, hanging in clusters from palm fronds, thorny trees, or overhead wires near paddies and wetlands. Breeding males show a striking yellow crown and are often visible display-flighting or hanging beneath a half-built nest, while females and non-breeding birds are duller and easier to overlook. The breeding season around the monsoon is by far the best time to see nesting colonies in action.