Ploceus benghalensis
The Black-breasted Weaver, *Ploceus benghalensis*, is a captivating passerine belonging to the family Ploceidae, widely celebrated for its remarkable architectural prowess in nest construction. This medium-sized bird measures approximately 15 cm (6 inches) in length, showcasing striking sexual dimorphism, particularly during the breeding season. The breeding male is unmistakable with its brilliant golden-yellow crown, stark black face and throat, and a prominent black breast band contrasting ...
This species predominantly inhabits tall grasslands, reedbeds, sugarcane fields, and marshes, particularly favoring areas adjacent to water bodies, from sea level up to moderate elevations.
Their diet primarily consists of seeds from various grasses and cultivated cereals, significantly supplemented with insects, particularly during the breeding season. They forage by gleaning seeds and snatching insects.
Black-breasted Weavers are primarily diurnal, actively foraging and engaging in social interactions during the day, typically congregating in dense vegetation for communal roosting at night. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning seeds from various grasses and cultivated cereals, along with sn...
The Black-breasted Weaver is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, encompassing a breeding range that includes Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. More isolated and fragmented populations also extend into parts of Myanmar. Its distribution is largely consistent with its presence ...
Least Concern
- The Black-breasted Weaver male is a master architect, capable of building multiple intricate, retort-shaped nests in a single breeding season to attract different females. - These impressive nests are often suspended over water, providing a natural defense against ground predators, making it ha...