Animals As Architects

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Some species of animals and birds are so skilled in construction, that they build themselves very elaborate homes. Termites, for example, build huge multi-roomed structures with elaborate ventilation systems.

Beavers are impressive engineers. Not only do they build shelters, they also adapt their environment by building dams to form ponds. If things aren’t working well, they change their methods and materials. They’ll use mud, vegetation or branches - whatever is most appropriate for a particular job.

Some birds are impressive architects. The male Australian bowerbird uses his home to attract a mate. He knows that the more attractive the home he builds, the more successful he’ll be. His home, called a bower, is a platform built between two rows of woven sticks that curve together in an arch. Bowerbirds decorate their home with leaves, feathers and fresh flowers, which are replaced on a daily basis! Some males actually use a piece of bark to paint the walls of their bower with crushed fruit, and they regularly redecorate!

Bowerbirds actually have an apprenticeship scheme, whereby young males work together to build a fairly primitive place, often getting help from more experienced males. When they have served their apprenticeship they’re ready to build their own more elaborate bowers.

So next time you think home improvement, think creatively like beavers and bowerbirds.