Orange Weaver
NameOrange Weaver
Common NameOrange Weaver
Scientific NamePloceus aurantius
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)19
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsMales in breeding plumage are bright orange with a black mask covering the face. Females and non-breeding males are yellowish-olive on the upperparts, brighter yellow on the underparts, with dark wings edged in yellow and a dark, conical bill.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations typically consist of buzzing, chattering, and sibilant notes, characteristic of many weaver species. They often emit a 'tsip' or 'chick' sound, especially when in flight or foraging.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to West and Central Africa, its range extends from Senegal east to Angola and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It has also been introduced to islands such as São Tomé and Príncipe.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size (10-12 cm), Males in breeding plumage are bright orange with a black face mask, Females and non-breeding males are yellowish-olive with a dark bill, Colonial nesting behavior, Intricate woven nests
Description
The Orange Weaver is a small, stocky passerine bird known for its colonial nesting habits and intricate woven nests. Males in breeding plumage are strikingly orange, while females and non-breeding males, like the one pictured, are typically yellowish-olive.
