Anaplectes jubaensis
The Red Weaver (Anaplectes jubaensis) is a striking passerine bird, closely related to other African weaver species within the family Ploceidae. Males are particularly vibrant, featuring a brilliant crimson head, contrasting with bright yellow underparts and a glossy black back, wings, and tail. Females are more subdued, exhibiting a yellowish-green head and paler plumage. These small birds measure approximately 13-14 cm in length and weigh between 18 and 24 grams, characterized by a stout bi...
Tropical and subtropical woodlands, savannas, open bushveld, and riparian forests, often near water sources. Found from lowlands up to around 1,800 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on beetles, caterpillars, and grasshoppers, supplemented with seeds, nectar, and small fruits. Forages by gleaning from foliage and bark.
The Red Weaver is a diurnal species, active throughout the day, foraging singly or in small groups, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects from foliage, bark, and occasionally catching them in flight. While they maintain territories around nestin...
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, the Red Weaver's breeding range extends from Senegal and Gambia in the west, eastward through Central African Republic, Sudan, and Ethiopia, then southwards through East Africa to Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and northeastern South Africa. It is a resident speci...
Least Concern
- The male Red Weaver is a master architect, weaving its elaborate, hanging nest primarily from thorny twigs and fine grasses, a process that can take several days to complete. - Its striking crimson head in males is a key feature used in attracting mates, signaling vitality and genetic fitness. ...