Philippine pied fantail bird

My walk this morning brought an unexpected surprise. While in the area, I heard the melodious chirping of many birds and set out to find the singers. Eventually, I spotted one perched on a cocoa tree branch, singing while fluttering its beautiful tail. I tried to take a photo, but the results were disappointing; the bird was on a high branch, just out of reach for my mobile phone camera. It was a Philippine Pied Fantail or Rhipidura nigritorquis in Latin.

The bird suddenly changed its tune, chirping rapidly. I looked around, wondering what it was trying to communicate. I was startled when I glanced to my right, right there, near where I stood, was its nest, containing a chick fast asleep. The nest was tiny seemingly big enough for only one chick and beautifully woven with remarkably neat detailing. It was more than just a place for shelter or sleep, it was the first home for a life just beginning.

The chick made no sound, merely opening its eyes slightly to look at me as I took its picture. After keeping its eyes open for a few seconds, it closed them again to resume its slumber. The chick was growing well, its body already covered in lovely feathers; the only thing missing was a fully developed tail. Barring any predator attacks, it wouldn't be long before the chick could fly and sing melodiously, just like its parents.