Black-breasted Weaver
NameBlack-breasted Weaver
Common NameBlack-breasted Weaver
Scientific NamePloceus melanogaster
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)14
Length (cm)14
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsMale in breeding plumage features a bright yellow crown, with the face, throat, and upper breast being solid black. The belly and undertail coverts are white. The upperparts are dark greyish-brown, often with some streaking, and the wings are dark with paler edgings. The bill is a striking pale blue, and the legs are pinkish. Females and non-breeding males are duller, typically olive-brown.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of a series of buzzing, chattering, or chirping notes, often described as a 'tsip-tsip-tsip' or a 'zzzzzt' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in West and Central Africa, with its range extending from Sierra Leone east through countries like Cameroon and Gabon to Uganda, and south into Angola.
Identifying Featuresbright yellow crown, black face and upper breast, pale blue bill, white belly, intricate woven nests
Description
The Black-breasted Weaver is a small, striking passerine bird. Males in breeding plumage display a vibrant yellow crown contrasting with a black face and upper breast, complemented by a distinctive pale blue bill. This species is known for constructing elaborate woven nests, often found in forest clearings and edges.
