Ploceus angolensis
The Bar-winged Weaver, *Ploceus angolensis*, is a captivating passerine endemic to the miombo woodlands of central Africa, known for the striking sexual dimorphism characteristic of its family, Ploceidae. Adult males are particularly vibrant, sporting a glossy black head, throat, back, and wings, vividly contrasted by a brilliant yellow underside and a diagnostic bright yellow bar across the flight feathers. Measuring approximately 14-15 cm in length and weighing between 18-28 grams, their pi...
The Bar-winged Weaver primarily inhabits miombo woodlands, savannas, and dry shrublands, often favoring areas near wetlands or rivers, typically found at elevations up to 1,500 meters.
The Bar-winged Weaver feeds primarily on insects, such as caterpillars and beetles, especially during the breeding season, supplementing its diet with various grass seeds and grain outside of nesting periods, foraging by gleaning and pecking.
These weavers are generally colonial breeders, though they can also be found in smaller family groups outside the breeding season, often roosting communally in reedbeds or dense trees. During the breeding season, males become highly territorial, aggressively defending small nesting areas where th...
The Bar-winged Weaver is endemic to a restricted yet relatively widespread area within central Africa, with its primary distribution encompassing eastern Angola, the southern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and western Zambia. This species is non-migratory and maintains a resident population ...
Least Concern
- The male Bar-winged Weaver can build multiple intricate nests in a single breeding season, showcasing his building prowess to attract females. - Their vivid yellow wing-bar is a crucial field mark, making them instantly recognizable amongst other black and yellow weaver species. - Despite their...