Ploceus heuglini
Heuglin's Masked Weaver, *Ploceus heuglini*, is a striking passerine bird of the family Ploceidae, renowned for its intricate nest-building. Males in breeding plumage are particularly vibrant, sporting a brilliant golden-yellow head, nape, and underparts, starkly contrasted by a distinctive black mask that extends from the lores, through the eyes, to the ear-coverts. Their back and wings are typically olive-green to yellowish-green with subtle dark streaking, and they measure about 14-16 cm i...
This species primarily inhabits open woodlands, savanna edges, riparian thickets, and cultivated areas, often near human settlements. It generally prefers lowland to mid-elevation zones, typically below 1500 meters.
Their diet consists primarily of insects, particularly caterpillars and beetles, gleaned from vegetation, supplemented by grass seeds and occasionally nectar or small fruits. Foraging is predominantly arboreal, though they will also feed on the ground.
Heuglin's Masked Weaver is a diurnal species, active throughout the day, often foraging alone or in small groups. Males are polygynous, engaging in elaborate courtship displays where they showcase their partially built, retort-shaped nests to prospective females. Nest building is a central part o...
Heuglin's Masked Weaver boasts a wide distribution across West and Central Africa, extending into parts of East Africa. Its range stretches from Senegal, Gambia, and Guinea-Bissau eastward through countries like Liberia, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic. Further east, it...
Least Concern
- Heuglin's Masked Weaver is named after Theodor von Heuglin, a German ornithologist and explorer who extensively studied African fauna. - Males are incredibly industrious, often building several incomplete 'display' nests to attract a mate, with the female then choosing one to complete. - Their ...