São Tomé Weaver
NameSão Tomé Weaver
Common NameSão Tomé Weaver
Scientific NamePloceus sanctithomae
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have bright yellow heads and underparts with a prominent black mask extending from the lores to the ear-coverts, a chestnut wash on the breast, and an olive-yellow back. Females and non-breeding males are duller, with yellowish-olive upperparts, paler yellow underparts, and darker olive-brown wings with pale edgings, lacking the black mask.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of buzzing or chattering notes, often described as churring or squeaky calls, typical of weaver species.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThis species is endemic to the island of São Tomé in the Gulf of Guinea, off the west coast of Central Africa.
Identifying FeaturesEndemic to São Tomé, Small size (approx. 13 cm), Yellowish-olive plumage (female/non-breeding), Bright yellow and black mask (breeding male), Conical weaver bill
Description
The São Tomé Weaver is a small, stocky passerine endemic to São Tomé island. Males in breeding plumage are strikingly yellow with a black mask, while females and non-breeding males are duller yellowish-olive. They are typically found foraging for seeds and insects in various wooded habitats.
