Hope blooms in Najran with sandalwood, aloeswood cultivation project

RIYADH: Golden-backed weavers, known for their remarkable nest-building skills, are thriving in the majestic mountains of Asir, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The small yellow bird gets its name from the elaborate nests its constructs using its strong beaks and claws.

Golden-backed weavers (Ploceus jacksoni) first select an area where they want to build a nest, typically choosing the small branches of a tree. They start with a ring of woven straw or grass and then complete the structure by intersecting threads at a specific angle.

The nest usually hangs from the branch to offer safe shelter for the bird’s offspring. The opening to the nest is narrow and faces downward to protect the young chicks from predators and other birds or animals.

Golden-backed weavers are known for their weaving ability, and are one of the most highly skilled species in the wild, according to SPA.

Additionally, the male bird structures the nest by manipulating threads of grass through its claws and beak, resulting in precise geometric shapes.

The bird has unique colors, with either a black or a brown head, and yellow feathers covering its entire body.

Golden-backed weavers, along with many other bird species, thrive in the southern Asir region due to its moderate temperatures, varied plant environment, and biodiversity.

The region has an area of 81,000 sq. km, and borders Yemen in the southeast and the Jazan region in the southwest.

Almost 500 species of birds have been recorded in Saudi Arabia, along with a variety of wildlife and 2,400 flowering plants, according to estimates.

RIYADH: Saudi students are taking part in the 57th International Chemistry Olympiad, the world’s largest high school chemistry competition.

The event is being held in Dubai until July 14, with more than 300 students from around the world competing for awards.

The scientific team has completed the review and translation of the practical exam for the Saudi students, who are preparing to take their first test, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.

This year, the Kingdom is represented by four students who have undergone thousands of hours of intensive training under the supervision of the King Abdulaziz and His Companions Foundation for Giftedness and Creativity, in partnership with the Ministry of Education.

The students are Rand Al-Hassan Awadhah (Riyadh), Haider Yasser Al-Dubaissi (Eastern Province), Ammar Mohammed Al-Turkistani (Jeddah) and Ali Ahmed Baouzir (Riyadh).

Saudi Arabia has earned 45 awards in past International Chemistry Olympiads, held annually since 1968 in different countries. These include 15 silver medals, 28 bronze medals and two certificates of appreciation.

The olympiad promotes international collaboration in chemistry and encourages young talent to solve complex scientific problems through innovative thinking.

It also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and academic excellence, and supports the development of future leaders in science and technology.