Wednesday 12 / August / 2026
Salalah: The distinctive hanging nests of the Rüppell’s Weaver have become a point of curiosity for visitors exploring Dhofar during the Khareef season, with many stopping to admire the bird’s remarkable craftsmanship.
Woven from grass, plant fibres and other vegetation, the unusual nests hang from tree branches, adding another fascinating feature to Dhofar’s lush landscape.
The Rüppell’s Weaver, scientifically known as Ploceus galbula, is a small bird measuring about 14.5 centimetres.
According to Oman’s Environment Authority, it is known for its skill in weaving nests from long strips of grass and other plant material.
The species is found in East Africa and southern Oman, including Dhofar, and has been recorded in areas such as Ayn Hamran, Wadi Darbat and Salalah.
A master of nest-building
The hanging nest is the bird’s most striking feature. The male carefully cuts and weaves vegetation into a strong, enclosed structure suspended from a branch, later adding its distinctive entrance.
The finished nest has a pouch- or bottle-like shape and is made from tightly interwoven grass, leaves and other plant fibres. Its elevated position helps protect it from ground-based predators.
A male can build several nests. The female lays two or three eggs, which are incubated for about 14 to 15 days. The young leave the nest at around 18 days.
A familiar sight during Khareef
The nests offer visitors another glimpse of Dhofar’s rich biodiversity during the season, when the region’s mountains, valleys and vegetation turn green.
“It was fascinating to see these nests hanging from the branches. At first, I wondered what they were, but after learning that they are built by weaver birds, I became even more interested in spotting them,” said Indian expatriate Ravi Kumar.
Another visitor, P Aslam, said the nests showed how much wildlife could be discovered by simply looking more closely.
“Dhofar is famous for its green mountains, mist and waterfalls during Khareef, but there are so many smaller wonders to notice as well. These nests are a beautiful example,” Aslam said.
A birdwatching enthusiast, Ritu Kumar, said the nests demonstrate the birds’ remarkable skills.
“These nests are incredibly detailed. You can see how carefully the fibres have been woven together. It is a reminder of the amazing skills birds use to build their homes,” the home-maker further added.
“Once you know what to look for, you start seeing them everywhere,” she added.
As Dhofar turns green during Khareef, the hanging nests provide a reminder that some of the region’s most fascinating natural sights can be found high among the trees.
