Village Weaver
NameVillage Weaver
Common NameVillage Weaver
Scientific NamePloceus cucullatus
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)37.5
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a black head, nape, and throat, with a chestnut wash on the hindneck and breast, and bright yellow underparts and rump. The back is yellow streaked with black. Non-breeding males, females, and juveniles are duller, with olive-yellow upperparts streaked darker, pale greyish-white underparts, and dark wings edged with yellow.
Vocalization / CallA noisy species, vocalizing with a variety of harsh, chattering calls, often described as 'chick-chick-chick' or a buzzing 'zzzzzzzz'. Calls are frequently given in colonies.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatssavanna, grassland, agricultural land, urban, garden, woodland edge
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa to East Africa and south to Southern Africa. Also introduced to several islands in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Identifying Featuresstout conical bill, sexual dimorphism (breeding males), elaborate woven nests, colonial nesting, noisy chattering calls, yellowish-green plumage (non-breeding)
Description
The Village Weaver is a common and adaptable passerine bird known for its elaborate woven nests. Males in breeding plumage are striking with black heads and bright yellow bodies, while females and non-breeding males are duller olive-yellow.
