Master architects

Even though it's been a bit hit-and-miss lately as to whether spring really is on the way, one thing you can definitely be sure of is that birds will be in full nest-building mode in only a matter of weeks.

And while most birds hide their beautiful creations under leaves, in nestboxes or tucked out of sight in the safety of a hollow tree trunk, there's one bird that proudly displays its home for all to see.

Sociable weavers build large community nests that can be home to 100s of birds. In fact, they build the largest nest of any bird. And it just so happens that their beautiful constructions have been lovingly captured by photographer Dillon Marsh.

Here's one of his images:

Each nest is unique and I highly recommend you check out the full set of photos over on Dillon's website. 

While over here you can find out more about his adventure to document these over-sized avian homes.

We want to be together!

As you've probably guessed from the photo, sociable weavers like to build their nests on tall objects. Every bird adds twigs and grass to the ever-growing home, and this great little article over on Scientific American delves deeper into the benefits of communal living.

Or, just press play and let the great David Attenborough tell you a little more about them!

To experience these master architects close up, you'll need to travel to Africa.

But if that's a little out of your travel (and climate) budget, we've got our own builders of intricate nests - though on a much smaller scale - right here in the UK.

Long-tailed tits make beautiful nests. Shaped like a bottle, they come complete with a roof, a deep (and cosy!) lining of feathers, and all interwoven with cobwebs to allow it to expand to accommodate a growing family - here's a half-built one!

I'd love for long-tailed tits to nest in my garden this year, but to be honest I'm happy when any creature takes up the offer to build their home and share their space with me. How about you?