White-headed Buffalo-Weaver
NameWhite-headed Buffalo-Weaver
Common NameWhite-headed Buffalo-Weaver
Scientific NameDinemellia dinemelli
FamilyPloceidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)18
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and underparts are pure white. The back, wings, and tail are glossy black. A prominent rufous-orange patch is visible on the rump and flanks, extending slightly onto the undertail coverts. There is a small orange patch on the shoulder/wing-bend. The bill is dark, and the eyes are dark.
Vocalization / CallThey have a variety of harsh, chattering, and squeaky calls, often given in chorus by a group. Calls include 'chick-chick-chick' and 'skweer-skweer'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern Africa, from Sudan and Ethiopia south through Somalia, Kenya, and Tanzania.
Identifying Featureswhite head, black back and wings, rufous-orange rump, dark bill, social behavior
Description
This striking bird is characterized by its bright white head and underparts, contrasting with a black back and wings, and a distinctive rufous-orange rump. They are highly social birds, often found in noisy groups in arid savannas, feeding on insects and seeds.
