What is the male Baya Weaver's very first step when beginning nest construction at a secure anchor point?

Tying leaf strips securely to create a foundational loop or wreath

The multi-stage construction process for species like the Baya Weaver always commences at a pre-selected, secure anchor point, which could be a thin branch, a sturdy palm leaf, or even an artificial structure like an electric cable. The absolute initial action taken by the male worker involves securing the structural beginning. This first step consists of tying the harvested leaf strips tightly around the anchor point to form a foundational loop or wreath. This loop serves the purpose of establishing the initial overhang, which ultimately dictates the nest's characteristic dangling profile and provides the necessary support structure from which the rest of the main body will be suspended and constructed.