Little Weaver
Ploceus luteolus
Visual Identification
Appearance
The Little Weaver is a small, vibrant bird. Breeding males have bright yellow plumage with a distinctive black face mask that covers the forehead, cheeks, and extends down to the throat. Their back and wings are olive-brown with yellow edges.
Females and non-breeding males are duller, with yellowish-green upperparts streaked with darker colours, and paler yellow to whitish underparts. Juveniles are similar but more grey-brown in colour.
Size
Length
11cm to 12cm
Wingspan
18cm to 20cm
Weight
13g to 19g
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
The Little Weaver is found across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south to northern South Africa. It inhabits open woodlands, savannahs, and grasslands with scattered trees.
These birds prefer areas with acacia trees for nesting and are also found in cultivated lands and gardens. They are non-migratory, maintaining their presence year-round in suitable habitats.
Elevation Range
Up to 1,500 meters
Climate zones
Tropical, Subtropical
Distribution Map
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Little Weaver. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Birds might not be everywhere in the coloured areas, for example, they may be present around the coast of that country
- Where birds live can change with seasons and available food
- This map is quite simple - it doesn't show exact locations
We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you:
- More detailed maps for bigger countries, including state and region
- How birds move around during different seasons
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Share your thoughtsBird Attributes Explained
Our bird attributes system rates various aspects of a bird's capabilities on a scale of 0-100, based on data from field observations, scientific studies, and expert knowledge.
Attribute Categories:
- Agility: Manoeuvrability, speed, and grace in flight or movement.
- Strength: Physical power, often correlating with size and hunting abilities.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in various environments or changing conditions.
- Aggressiveness: Territorial behaviour and assertiveness, particularly during breeding seasons.
- Endurance: Stamina, often seen in migration patterns or foraging behaviours.
Understanding the Ratings:
- 0-20: Very Low
- 21-40: Low
- 41-60: Average
- 61-80: High
- 81-100: Very High
Remember, these attributes are relative to other bird species and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Hover over the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Tap the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Agility
Reflects the bird's manoeuvrability, speed, and grace in flight or movement.
The Little Weaver demonstrates remarkable agility through its swift climbing abilities in vegetation and precise nest-weaving skills. Their ability to manoeuvre quickly through branches whilst foraging and construct intricate nests shows exceptional dexterity.
Strength
Indicates the bird's physical power, often correlating with size and hunting abilities.
Whilst capable of weaving sturdy nests from grass and palm fronds, the Little Weaver's small size (11-12 cm) and light weight (13-19g) indicate relatively modest strength compared to other birds. They possess sufficient strength for their size-appropriate tasks.
Adaptability
Represents the bird's ability to thrive in various environments or changing conditions.
These birds show impressive adaptability, thriving across various habitats from woodlands to urban gardens. Their ability to utilise different nesting materials, adjust their diet seasonally, and maintain stable populations despite environmental changes demonstrates strong adaptive capabilities.
Aggressiveness
Measures the bird's territorial behaviour and assertiveness, particularly during breeding seasons.
Males display territorial behaviour during breeding season and defend their nests, but they're generally social and peaceful, often forming mixed-species colonies. Their aggression is primarily limited to breeding-related displays rather than genuine hostile behaviour.
Endurance
Reflects the bird's stamina, often seen in migration patterns or foraging behaviours.
The Little Weaver exhibits moderate endurance, maintaining daily activities of foraging and nest-building. Their non-migratory nature suggests sufficient stamina for local movements, though they're not known for particularly lengthy flights or exceptional physical endurance feats.
Diet
Little Weavers primarily feed on seeds, particularly those of grasses and cereals. They supplement their diet with insects, especially during the breeding season when protein-rich food is crucial for nestling development. They often forage on the ground or in low vegetation.
Behaviour
Little Weavers are highly social birds, often seen in small flocks outside the breeding season. They are agile climbers, moving swiftly through vegetation while foraging.
During breeding, males become territorial and engage in elaborate nest-building displays to attract females.
Vocalisation
The Little Weaver has a variety of vocalisations, including a rapid, chattering 'chit-chit-chit' call often heard in flocks.
During courtship, males produce a more melodious warbling song, sometimes accompanied by wing-fluttering displays. Their calls can be described as a mix of chirps and buzzes.
Nesting & Breeding
Breeding occurs during the rainy season, typically from July to September. Males construct intricate, oval-shaped nests by weaving grass and palm fronds, often in acacia trees.
Females lay 2-3 pale blue or greenish eggs with brown speckles. The nest has a downward-facing entrance, providing protection from predators.
Incubation lasts about 12-14 days, primarily done by the female. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after approximately 14-16 days.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
The Little Weaver is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Its wide distribution and adaptability to various habitats contribute to its stable population.
However, local threats include habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and pesticide use in some areas.
Population Data
Global Population Estimate
Unknown
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for their distinctive yellow plumage in open woodlands and savannahs
- Listen for their chattering calls, especially near nesting sites
- Observe their intricate nest-weaving behaviour during the breeding season
- Check acacia trees, where they often build their nests
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Family:
PloceidaeAverage Lifespan
5 to 8 years
Predators
Main predators include snakes, birds of prey such as hawks and falcons, and small carnivorous mammals like genets and mongooses.
Did You Know?
- Male Little Weavers can weave a complete nest in just one day.
- They often build their nests in colonies, sometimes with other weaver species.
- Little Weavers have been observed using tools, such as leaves, to remove parasites from their feathers.
References
- 1 2
website: BirdLife International. 2018. Ploceus luteolus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2018: e.T22718779A132120496.
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