Black-headed Weaver

Overview

The black-headed weaver (Ploceus melanocephalus), also known as the yellow-backed weaver, is a species of bird in the family Ploceidae. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and serves as a resident breeder in damp areas across tropical Africa.

Identification

• Breeding males feature a black head and a yellow nuchal collar, along with a plain, greenish mantle.
• The underparts of breeding males are pale yellow, often suffused with a variable amount of chestnut.
• Females and non-breeding males lack the black head, exhibiting buffy breast plumage, dark eyes, and a darker bill.

Habitat

This species inhabits savanna and similar habitats in West, Central, and East Africa, typically near water. It has also been introduced to the Iberian Peninsula.

Did you know?

The bird often resides on an Acacia tree positioned approximately three metres away from land to prevent predation.