AFRICAN WEAVER
Ploceus cucullatus
DESCRIPTION
African Weaver (Ploceus cucullatus) is commonly known as the Yellow Weaver and the Village Weaver. This small bird is characterized by its vibrant yellow plumage, with males displaying a striking black crown and face during the breeding season. They are highly social birds, often found in large colonies, and are known for their intricate nest-building skills, weaving grass and other materials into elaborate structures suspended from tree branches.
FUN FACTS
- African Weavers are known for their impressive nest-building skills, which can take several days to complete
- Males will often build multiple nests to attract females, showcasing their craftsmanship and ability to gather materials
- | These birds are also known for their social behavior, often forming large flocks that can number in the hundreds
- Their communal living not only helps in foraging but also provides safety in numbers against predators
QUICK INFO
Lifespan5-10 years in the wild
Average Weight20-30 g
Average Length15-20 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are typically found in groups, often forming large colonies during the breeding season. These colonies can consist of hundreds of individuals.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonVaries by region, typically during the rainy season.
- Habitat
- These birds inhabit a variety of environments, including savannas, grasslands, and wetlands. They are often found near water sources, where they can easily access food and nesting materials.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Wetland, Grassland
- Native Range
- The African Weaver is native to sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal and Gambia in the west to Ethiopia and Tanzania in the east.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia
- Diet
- African Weavers primarily feed on seeds, grains, and insects. They are known to forage in flocks, often foraging on the ground or in vegetation.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- seeds, grains, insects
- Social Structure
- They are typically found in groups, often forming large colonies during the breeding season. These colonies can consist of hundreds of individuals.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 20-100
- Territorial
- 0
LC
VU
20-30 g
Weight
15-20 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Bright yellow body with a black face and crown in males; females are more subdued in color, typically brown and yellow.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are more brightly colored than females, especially during the breeding season.
- Lifespan
- 5-10 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Varies by region, typically during the rainy season.
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population of African Weavers is currently stable, and they are considered common in their range.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Not precisely estimated, but they are widespread and abundant.
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and urbanization poses a threat to their populations. However, they are adaptable and can thrive in modified habitats.
- Predators
- Snakes, birds of prey, and domestic cats are known predators of African Weavers.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often nest in colonies to reduce predation risk and can be quite aggressive in defending their nests.
- Compatible Animals
- Other small birds, null
- Found in Zoos
- Common