Grosbeak Weaver
NameGrosbeak Weaver
Common NameGrosbeak Weaver
Scientific NameAmblyospiza albifrons
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsFemales and immatures have brown upperparts, a brownish head, and heavily streaked buffy-white and dark brown underparts. The massive bill is pale yellow. Adult males in breeding plumage are glossy black with prominent white patches on the primary coverts and base of the primaries, also featuring a large pale yellow bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of whistles, chattering notes, and buzzing sounds, often given from dense cover. They can produce a distinctive 'chip-chip' call and a more complex song during the breeding season.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range of sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa (e.g., Sierra Leone, Liberia) east through countries like Ethiopia and Kenya, and south to Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesMassive pale yellow conical bill, Stocky build, Heavily streaked underparts (females/immatures), White wing patches (adult males)
Description
The Grosbeak Weaver is a large, stocky weaver known for its exceptionally massive, conical bill. Females and immatures, like the one pictured, display brown upperparts and heavily streaked underparts, while breeding males are glossy black with distinctive white wing patches. They are typically found in forest edges and woodlands, often near water sources.
