Village Weaver
Image: ebenavidesr (cc-by-nc)
NameVillage Weaver
Common NameVillage Weaver
Scientific NamePloceus cucullatus
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)38
Plumage DetailsThe male in breeding plumage (as shown) has a black head, often with a chestnut-brown nape and throat. Its underparts are bright yellow, contrasting with a yellow back heavily streaked with black. The wings are dark with yellow edgings. Females and non-breeding males are duller, mostly streaky brown above and pale yellow to whitish below.
Vocalization / CallA noisy and gregarious species, the Village Weaver produces a variety of harsh, chattering calls, often given in choruses at their colonies. Vocalizations include a rapid 'chick-chick-chick' and a buzzing 'zzzzzzzzzz' sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, woodland, farmland, urban areas, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Mauritania east to Ethiopia and south to Angola and eastern South Africa. It has also been introduced to some islands, including Hispaniola.
Identifying Featuresmale's black head with chestnut nape, bright yellow body, streaked yellow and black back, stout conical bill, colonial nesting behavior, elaborate woven nests
Description
The Village Weaver is a common and widespread African passerine bird known for its colonial nesting habits and the males' elaborate woven nests. Males in breeding plumage, as pictured, are strikingly yellow with a black head and often a chestnut wash on the nape, making them easily identifiable.
