Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver
NameRed-billed Buffalo-Weaver
Common NameRed-billed Buffalo-Weaver
Scientific NameBubalornis niger
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)24
Weight (g)70
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a prominent white patch on the flanks, visible when the wings are folded. The bill is bright red, and the legs and feet are reddish-orange. Females are similar but often duller, sometimes with some brown mottling, and juveniles are browner overall.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include harsh, chattering, buzzing, and squeaky calls, often given in a noisy chorus, especially around their communal nests. They produce a variety of grating and whistling notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern and southern Africa, ranging from Ethiopia and Somalia south through Kenya, Tanzania, and Zambia to Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Identifying Featureslarge size, all-black plumage (male), bright red bill, reddish-orange legs, white flank patch (male)
Description
The Red-billed Buffalo-Weaver is a large, stocky weaver bird with predominantly black plumage, a striking red bill, and reddish-orange legs. These highly social birds are often found in dry savannas and acacia woodlands, where they build large communal nests.
