The colonies "form one political body, of which each is a member."

Large colonies sometimes form, but these are seldom on rocks.

Soon a colony had formed there with him as its 'tribal' chief.

At this time, breeding colonies consisting of around 12 pairs form.

Two years later he insisted the colonies would never form "a redoubtable whole."

The colony often forms the centerpiece of a large jungle clearing.

Other pairs seeking a nest site join them, and in this matter a colony forms quickly.

There are colony forming units that the cells follow during their formation.

There are also cases in which the adjacent colonies of the same species form a single colony by fusing.

Martin pairs often nest alone, although where suitable sites are available small loose colonies may form.