Cape Weaver

The Cape weaver, Ploceus capensis, is a robust bird, measuring 17 cm in length, with olive-brown streaked upperparts and a sharply pointed conical bill. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism.

Identification Tips

During the breeding season, the male Cape weaver is resplendent with a bright yellow head and underparts, an orange visage, and striking white irises. The adult female, however, sports an olive-yellow head and breast, which fades to a paler yellow on the lower belly. While females typically have brown eyes, a small percentage may display pale eyes during the summer months. Juveniles resemble the female in plumage.

Habitat

The Cape weaver thrives in open grasslands, lowland fynbos, coastal thickets, and agricultural landscapes, provided there is a consistent presence of water and suitable trees for nesting.

Distribution

This bird is endemic to the southern reaches of Africa, specifically South Africa, Lesotho, and Eswatini. Its range extends from the Northern Cape's Orange River, southward to the Cape of Good Hope, and eastward to northern KwaZulu Natal, almost reaching Bloemfontein in the Free State.

Behaviour

Outside of the breeding season, Cape weavers form flocks and congregate in large communal roosts, which may be shared with other avian species. They exhibit anting behavior and are known to bathe even during rainfall or mist.

Song & Calls

The Cape weaver's song is a distinctive, somewhat strident sizzle. Its alarm call is a sharp, clipped double note, and for general communication, it emits a harsh "azwit".

Breeding

A polygynous species, the Cape weaver male may court up to seven females in a single season. Males construct multiple nests within their territories, which they defend with vigor. Females inspect the nests' craftsmanship before mating. The nests, kidney-shaped and waterproof, are woven from broad grass or reed strips. The female lines the interior with fine grass and feathers once she accepts a nest. Clutches typically consist of 2-5 eggs, with the female incubating them for approximately two weeks. Chicks fledge at about 17 days old. The species is known to be parasitized by the diederik cuckoo and may suffer from mite and tick infestations.

Similar Species

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Diet and Feeding

The Cape weaver is omnivorous, consuming equal parts animal and plant matter, including seeds, fruit, nectar, insects, and spiders. It employs various foraging techniques, from ground feeding to hawking insects mid-air. The species plays a significant role as a pollinator of aloes in South Africa.

Conservation Status

The Cape weaver is classified as Least Concern, with populations that are common and widespread. However, in some agricultural areas, they can become pests and are sometimes culled in large numbers.