White-browed Sparrow-Weaver

Overview

The white-browed sparrow-weaver (Plocepasser mahali) is a predominantly brown, sparrow-sized bird found throughout central and north-central southern Africa. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and is currently expanding its range on southern, northern, and eastern fronts.

Identification

• Predominantly brown plumage with a broad, white eyebrow stripe and a white rump that is visible in flight.
• Length ranges from 17 to 19 cm (6.7 to 7.5 in), making it larger than the similar yellow-throated petronia.
• Males possess a black bill, whereas females have a horn-colored (light gray) bill and juveniles have a pinkish-brown bill.
• Vocalisations include either a brief chik-chick or a loud, fluid cheoop-preeoo-chop whistle.

Habitat

This species most densely populates dry regions featuring woodland or wooded grassland, with its range extending from Botswana and northern Namibia to western Zimbabwe and as far north as Ethiopia. It is sedentary and nests in colonies along thornveld and scrubby, dry riverbanks.

Did you know?

The species epithet mahali is likely derived from the Sesotho word mohale, meaning a brave or fierce person, which suggests the bird's name may refer to its angry scolding. Additionally, these birds exhibit daily heterothermy in hotter climates, allowing them to let their bodies heat up to conserve water rather than using evaporative cooling.