Asian Golden Weaver

Overview

The Asian golden weaver (Ploceus hypoxanthus) is a medium-sized bird in the family Ploceidae. It is classified as Near Threatened due to population declines from habitat loss and capture for the trade.

Identification

• Breeding males are bright yellow with a distinct black mask, while females and non-breeding males are dull in colour.
• Features include a yellow crown, black face, and a strong black bill.
• Average length is approximately 22 centimetres.
• Females and young birds are difficult to distinguish from the Baya Weaver, often requiring inspection of the thicker bill for identification.

Habitat

Found in Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam, it inhabits subtropical or tropical lowlands such as seasonally wet or flooded grasslands, swamps, and arable land. It is usually found in lowlands with close proximity to water, including marshes and rice paddies.

Diet

This weaver feeds mainly on seeds. During the breeding season, insects account for approximately 7% of its diet.

Did you know?

Nests are sometimes placed near hornet nests or biting ants, likely for protection. The oldest recorded bird lived to the age of 11 years.