Which fundamental engineering problem does the Baya Weaver demonstrate by balancing a heavy roof load with a narrow base?

A solved problem in tension and compression

The sophisticated engineering utilized by the Baya Weaver provides direct, real-world examples of structural mechanics that human engineers spend significant time calculating. A critical observation involves watching how the bird manages the structural relationship between the upper and lower parts of the nest. Specifically, the weaver successfully balances the considerable weight of the roof structure—which is comprised of thousands of woven fibers—against the comparatively narrow base where the structure is held aloft. This balancing act, secured only by a few critical anchor knots, is essentially a perfectly executed solution to managing the opposing forces of tension, which pulls the strands apart, and compression, which pushes materials together, demonstrating profound, evolved structural insight.