Speke's Weaver
NameSpeke's Weaver
Common NameSpeke's Weaver
Scientific NamePloceus spekei
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)15
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsBreeding males are bright yellow on the head, underparts, and rump, with a prominent black face mask covering the lores, cheeks, and throat. The back and wings are streaked black and yellow-olive. Females and non-breeding males are duller, more olive-brown with streaking, lacking the distinct black mask.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of chattering, buzzing, and hissing notes, often given in a noisy chorus by colonies.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to East Africa, found in Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Identifying Featuresbright yellow plumage (male), black face mask (male), streaked back and wings, conical black bill, colonial nesting
Description
The Speke's Weaver is a medium-sized passerine bird known for its striking yellow plumage in males, featuring a distinctive black face mask. These highly social birds are famous for their colonial nesting habits, constructing intricate woven nests.
