![TailorbirdC-m [MichaelKhor] 1](http://www.besgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/TailorbirdC-m-MichaelKhor-1-1.jpg)
Michael Khor monitored a male Common Tailorbird (Orthotomus sutorius) pulling together the large leaves of Simpuh Air (Dillenia suffreticosa) in early February 2016. The bird was using its feet to pull the edges of two leaves together in order to tie them with plant fibres or spider web. Within this nest pouch the tailorbird will construct the nest proper.
![TailorbirdC-m [MichaelKhor] 4](http://www.besgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/TailorbirdC-m-MichaelKhor-4.jpg)
“Looks like the holes at the edges of the leaf are actually first made by the bird when holding on to it and pulling it to the other edge – see puncture marks. Suppose it can then connect these holes on opposite edges using material in its beak?” wrote Michael.
![TailorbirdC-m [MichaelKhor] 3](http://www.besgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/TailorbirdC-m-MichaelKhor-3.jpg)
“Nothing happened the next few days. Then yesterday I spotted a clump of fibres with the leaf rolled up but just with a couple of holes secured by the fibres. Let’s see what happens next…
![TailorbirdC-m [MichaelKhor] 2](http://www.besgroup.org/wp-content/uploads/TailorbirdC-m-MichaelKhor-2.jpg)
“Had just got the Nikon P900 recently, so in dim cloudy conditions this morning, I had set the ISO to its max of 6400 to shoot the bee eater perched on the neighbour’s aerial.
“Visitors came for a fairly late lunch. And as some of them were leaving, I heard the tailorbird’s call. Grabbed the P900 and sat on a chair about 10m from the leaf. No need to adjust ISO cause leaf in a dark spot. Enjoy the video above!”
Michael Khor
Singapore
February 2016
This post is a cooperative effort between Birds, Insects N Creatures Of Asia and BESG to bring the study of birds and their behavior through photography and videography to a wider audience.
Amar-Singh HSS (Dato' Dr)
Lovely documentation Michael.
Kyoko Yoshino
Hi Michael, these photos are fantastic!
I am working for the Japanese TV to make the documentary of the Taylor Bird now.
Can you give us your advise where we can find their nests?
I look forward to hearing from you.
Thank you!
YC Wee
Michael Khor can be contacted at https://www.facebook.com/groups/394479540610099/ or his own FB.
Kyoko Yoshino
Hi Dr. Wee
Thanks for your message. I have sent my message to Mr. Kor.
Also can you advise us where we can find the Taylor Birds nests?
Thanks!
YC Wee
Sorry, I have not been out in the field for some time now.
Kyoko Yoshino
Hi Michael, we are still looking for the Taylorbirds nests at Sungei Buloh but can’t find any active ones…
The director would like to talk to you about your photos and VTR of the taylor birds making their nests. Can you contact me when you are free? Thanks! Kyoko 9799-5019