Southern Masked Weaver
A species of Typical weavers Scientific name : Ploceus velatus Genus : Typical weavers
Southern Masked Weaver, A species of Typical weavers
Botanical name: Ploceus velatus
Genus: Typical weavers
Content
Description General Info
Description
The southern masked weaver is 11–14.5 cm (4.3–5.7 in) long with a short, strong, conical bill and pinkish brown legs. The adult male in breeding plumage has a black face, throat and beak, red eye, bright yellow head and underparts, and a plain yellowish-green back, The female has a pinkish-brown bill, brown or red-brown eye and is dull greenish-yellow, streaked darker on the upper back. The throat is yellowish, fading to off-white on the belly. The non-breeding male resembles the female but retains the red eye. The juvenile of this species is like the female. The call is a harsh swizzling, similar to other weavers. It also utters a sharp chuk alarm note.
Size
13 cm
Colors
Black
Green
Yellow
Gray
White
Life Expectancy
23 years
Nest Placement
Tree
Feeding Habits
Southern Masked Weaver predominantly feeds on seeds, insects, and nectar, often seen solo or in groups. Southern Masked Weaver may join larger flocks at feeding sites, demonstrating flexible foraging behaviors and a diverse diet.
Habitat
The southern Masked Weaver predominantly resides in open savanna landscapes, particularly favoring semi-arid habitats like shrubland, grassland, and open woodlands. It is adaptable and can be found in both inland wetlands and semi-desert areas. This species also comfortably inhabits human-altered environments such as farmlands, plantations, and urban or rural gardens, from sea level up to elevations of 2600 meters.
Dite type
Granivorous
General Info
Feeding Habits
Bird food type
Species Status
Not globally threatened.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Birds Order
Perching birds Family
Weavers Genus
Typical weavers Species
Southern Masked Weaver