Cape Weaver

The Cape Weaver - Ploceus capensis - is Endemic to South Africa. This common species occurs in grassland, agricultural and fynbos habitats, often near rivers. A large weaver with a long, pointed black bill.  Male less brilliant yellow than other ‘golden’ weavers. The face and throat has a brown to orange wash. Breeding male’s eye is pale. Females and non-breeding males are olive to olive-brown above and pale yellow below; juvenile and females have brown eyes.

The male call includes a harsh alarm “chack” a long sequence of chattering, swizzling, bubbly notes and a soft “chack” contact call. 

The flight is fast and direct.  These birds bathe frequently and are always found in flocks and form large roosts throughout the year.

Forages mostly on the ground where it will turn over stones, cow patties and search tree bark for insects. They feed on a wide variety of seeds, grain and insects. Nearly equal parts animal and vegetable matter. Also known to eat flowers and drink nectar.

It breeds in noisy colonies in trees and reed-beds. This weaver builds a large coarsely woven nest made of grass and leaf strips with a downward facing entrance which is suspended from a branch or reed. A Male may have up to 7 female in one breeding season. Males build the nest and females will inspect it and will not solicit copulation until she has decided on a nest which she will then line with fine grass, down and feathers. The nest is an oblong kidney shape. The breeding season is from June to February, in summer rainfall areas, earlier from August to October in the Western Cape.  Two to Five eggs are laid which only the female will incubate for between 13 to 14 days. Normally the female does most feeding of young, predominantly insects, however, some males may share almost equal feeding duties.  On average nestling period lasts 17 days.

Conservation Status – Least Concern.

These large striking weavers can be seen on the following Aves Birding Tours/Safaris/Adventures: -

 Aves Eastern Cape Birding Tour / Safari /Adventure.

Aves Highlands / Tembe Birding Tour / Safari / Adventure.

Aves KZN Birding Tour / Safari / Adventure.

Aves North East Birding Tour / Safari / Adventure.

Aves North West Birding Tour / Safari / Adventure.

Aves Western Cape Birding Tour / Safari / Adventure.

Aves West Coast Birding Tour / Safari /Adventure.