Yes; they were the nests of a colony of harmless finches of the genus ploceus,-better known to you under the appellation of "weaver-birds."
"Popular Adventure Tales"
Mayne Reid
Some, as the ploceus icterocephalus, make their nests of a kidney shape, with the entrance upon the sides, and the latter not circular, but like an arched doorway.
"Popular Adventure Tales"
Mayne Reid