Pachyphantes superciliosus
The Compact Weaver (Pachyphantes superciliosus) is a diminutive and aptly named passerine, typically measuring 12-14 cm in length and weighing a lean 15-25 grams, with a wingspan of 18-22 cm. Its most striking field mark is the bright, almost luminous yellow supercilium that contrasts sharply with its olive-brown crown and nape, giving rise to its specific epithet. Males in breeding plumage are a vibrant spectacle, showcasing a brilliant yellow breast and belly, olive-green upperparts, and da...
Found primarily in open grasslands, savannas, and shrublands, often favoring areas near water sources like rivers, lakes, and marshes. Occupies elevations ranging from sea level up to 1,500 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on small caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, and spiders, supplemented with a significant portion of small grass seeds, particularly during the dry season.
Compact Weavers are diurnal, highly active from dawn until dusk, often seen foraging in small, agile flocks outside the breeding season before gathering in communal roosts within dense reeds or thorny thickets at night. Their foraging strategy involves acrobatic gleaning of insects from grass ste...
The Compact Weaver is a widespread resident across much of East and parts of Central Africa. Its primary breeding range extends from central Kenya and northern Tanzania westward through Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, reaching into eastern Democratic Republic of Congo and south-eastern South Sudan. ...
Least Concern
- The Compact Weaver's nests are so tightly woven that they are almost impervious to water, providing excellent insulation and protection from predators. - A single male Compact Weaver can construct up to 5-7 incomplete 'display' nests during a breeding season to attract females, often completing...