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
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 is a widespread species that thrives in a variety of habitats, predominantly found in open savanna, particularly in semi-arid regions, including shrubland, grassland, and open woodland. It is also well accommodated in inland wetlands and semi-desert areas. The bird frequently occupies scrub and riverine thickets and adapts to alien trees within farmland and plantations, especially for nesting. Urban and rural gardens are common residencies for the southern Masked Weaver. It is prevalent in regions reaching elevations up to 2600 meters in places like Lesotho, while generally preferring areas below 1500 meters.
Dite type
Granivorous
General Info
Species Status
Not globally threatened.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Birds Order
Perching birds Family
Weavers Genus
Typical weavers Species
Southern Masked Weaver