Baya Weaver
NameBaya Weaver
Common NameBaya Weaver
Scientific NamePloceus philippinus
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)22
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a bright yellow crown and nape, a dark brown mask covering the lores and ear-coverts, and a yellow breast. Their upperparts are streaked brown and black, and the underparts are pale buffy-white. The conical bill is dark. Females and non-breeding males are duller, mostly streaked brown above and plain buff below, lacking the bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallA continuous chirping, chattering, and buzzing sound, often described as 'cheer-cheer-cheer' or 'tsee-tsee-tsee'. They are very vocal, especially around their nesting colonies.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including Pakistan, India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and parts of Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesBright yellow crown and breast (breeding male), Dark brown mask (breeding male), Conical, stout bill, Elaborate, pendulous woven nests, Social behavior in colonies
Description
The Baya Weaver is a small, stout-billed bird renowned for its elaborate, pendulous woven nests. Males in breeding plumage display a striking yellow crown and breast, contrasting with a dark face and streaked back. They are highly social birds, often found in colonies in open country.
