BLACK-HEADED WEAVER
Ploceus melanocephalus
DESCRIPTION
The Black-headed Weaver is a small, colorful bird known for its intricate nest-building skills. Males are particularly striking with their black heads and bright yellow bodies during the breeding season.
FUN FACTS
- Black-headed Weavers are known for their elaborate nests, which can be quite large and complex | Males perform a unique courtship display to attract females | They can often be seen foraging in groups, showcasing their social behavior
QUICK INFO
LifespanUp to 5 years in the wild.
Average Weight20-30 g
Average Length15-20 cm
Diet TypeOmnivore
Social StructureThey are typically found in groups, especially outside the breeding season.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonVaries by region, generally during the rainy season.
- Habitat
- Black-headed Weavers inhabit open woodlands, savannas, and areas near water bodies. They prefer habitats with abundant vegetation for nesting.
- Biomes
- Savanna, Grassland, Wetland
- Native Range
- They are native to parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
- Continent
- Africa
- Countries
- Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia
- Diet
- This species primarily feeds on seeds, grains, and insects. They are known to forage in trees and grasslands for food.
- Diet Type
- Omnivore
- Favorite Food
- seeds, grains, insects
- Social Structure
- They are typically found in groups, especially outside the breeding season.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-50
- Territorial
- 1
LC
VU
20-30 g
Weight
15-20 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Bright yellow body with a black head and a brownish back.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males are more brightly colored than females.
- Lifespan
- Up to 5 years in the wild.
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-5
- Sexual Maturity
- 1 year
- Breeding Season
- Varies by region, generally during the rainy season.
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Not precisely estimated, but considered common in suitable habitats.
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat destruction due to agriculture and urbanization is the main threat to their populations.
- Predators
- Snakes, birds of prey, and larger mammals.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They often use their nests' complex structure to evade predators.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon