Montezuma oropendola. View of a Montezuma oropendola (Gymnostinops montezuma) perched on its hanging nest. These birds inhabit the forests of the Amer

Montezuma oropendola. View of a Montezuma oropendola (Gymnostinops montezuma) perched on its hanging nest. These birds inhabit the forests of the American tropics, and live in large colonies during the breeding season. Such colonies have a strict hierarchy which prevents fights amongst rival males. Only the males build nests, and they accompany the construction with dancing displays to attract females. The large nests, which may be over 1.5 metres in length, are woven from dry grasses and plant fibres, and may take over two weeks to complete. Oropendolas typically eat fruit from trees, but may also take insects. Photographed in Tikal, Guatemala.