Histurgops ruficauda
The Rufous-tailed Weaver (*Histurgops ruficauda*) is a captivating and highly social passerine endemic to the arid savannas and acacia woodlands of East Africa. Measuring approximately 19-21 cm in length and weighing around 45-55 grams, this medium-sized weaver is readily identified by its striking rufous-chestnut tail, which contrasts sharply with its otherwise greyish-brown body plumage, paler underparts, and distinct pale-yellowish eyes. Fine streaking may be visible on the upperparts, par...
This species thrives in dry acacia savannas, thornbush scrub, and open woodlands, typically found at elevations ranging from 500 to 1,800 meters above sea level.
Predominantly insectivorous, the Rufous-tailed Weaver feeds primarily on ground-dwelling invertebrates such as termites, ants, beetles, and caterpillars, supplemented with grass seeds and other vegetable matter. Foraging occurs almost exclusively on the ground in large, coordinated flocks.
Rufous-tailed Weavers are highly diurnal and exceptionally gregarious, rarely seen alone and often forming large, noisy flocks that can number in the dozens or even hundreds, especially outside the breeding season. They are primarily ground foragers, meticulously gleaning insects and seeds from t...
The Rufous-tailed Weaver is an endemic resident of East Africa, primarily distributed across the central and northern parts of Tanzania, with a smaller, contiguous range extending into extreme southern Kenya. Its core distribution includes well-known national parks and wildlife reserves such as S...
Least Concern
- The Rufous-tailed Weaver is the sole member of its genus, *Histurgops*, making it a unique evolutionary lineage within the diverse weaver family. - Unlike many weavers known for their intricately woven individual nests, Rufous-tailed Weavers build large, messy, communal apartment-like nests tha...